Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced an update to MTA services in advance of the morning rush hour.

“The New York City Metropolitan area is seeing snow accumulations and freezing conditions that are expected to continue throughout the morning,” Governor Cuomo said. “We are currently seeing good service with minimal impacts but will keep a close watch on the forecasts and field reports throughout the region. Those who have to travel should monitor the news and check with mta.info before heading out this morning.”

MTA crews are working to battle adverse conditions that could lead to difficulties in this morning’s rush hour. De-icers have been deployed to prevent build-up of sleet and freezing rain on rails. Trains with scraper shoes have also been put in service. Crews are out salting and clearing platforms and staircases of ice, but we urge customers to use extreme caution when traveling. Customers should stay clear of the platform edges, use handrails on staircases and walk carefully when entering or exiting stations and boarding or leaving trains.

New York City Subway

Subway cars were stored underground on express tracks to protect the equipment. Because of this, all trains will run local for the start of the morning rush hour, until all stored trains are moved from the express tracks.

Buses

Customers can anticipate delays throughout the city due to road conditions. The Department of Buses has installed tire chains on all buses going into service this morning and will run at about 85 percent capacity. Routes and service levels will be evaluated as the storm continues. If conditions deteriorate, service may be further curtailed this morning.

Long Island Rail Road

LIRR will be operate on a weekend schedule as a result of the anticipated blizzard-like, white-out conditions expected from the winter storm, which threatens to deposit 6-10 inches of snow, or more, on Long Island combined with gusty winds and drifting snow.

With the implementation of the weekend schedule, there will be no service between Greenport and Ronkonkoma and no service on the West Hempstead Branch. Bus service will be provided between Greenport and Ronkonkoma.

Metro-North Railroad

Metro-North will operate a Saturday schedule. Depending on the time of day, this schedule provides approximately 60% of normal weekday trains. The Haverstraw-Ossining Ferry and Newburgh-Beacon Ferry will not operate and the Hudson Rail Link will operate on a special schedule.

Access-A-Ride

We’ve over 13,000 customer cancellations. Paratransit customers may experience additional travel and wait times. Depending on conditions, customers may want to reconsider travel, unless medically necessary.

Bridges and Tunnels

All MTA bridges and tunnels remain open. Due to high winds and road conditions motorists are asked to drive at reduced speeds.

Customers can check on updated conditions posted in the Current Service Status at www.mta.info for further service information.

(YWN Desk – NYC)