Valley Stream Work Completed - Switches and Signals Modernized

LIRR Issued Project Work Video Update on Facebook & YouTube

Major signal and switch modernization work performed in Valley Stream by the MTA Long Island Rail Road on the weekend of October 24 & 25 was successfully completed on schedule. During the project, the LIRR posted a video update on Facebook and YouTube that illustrates the behind-the-scenes efforts undertaken by LIRR employees that weekend to modernize the LIRR.

The video can be viewed on Facebook and YouTube.

Completion of the project means greater reliability and fewer service related delays for LIRR customers. About 400 trains each day pass through the area of the switch and signal upgrade.

The Valley Interlocking Signal Cutover Project brings state-of-the-art technology to this critical LIRR location by replacing the 1930’s-era relay based signal technology with a modern microprocessor based system. The Model 14 Interlocking Machine that relied upon electro-mechanical hand thrown switching at the Valley Tower will now use modern microprocessor-computer based technology. In addition, 29 switch machines in the area were modernized with electronic components replacing the outdated mechanical ones that had to rely on air compressors to operate. The new more reliable system will increase operational flexibility for the large volume of trains that pass through this area, helping to reduce customer delays. The cost of the project is approximately $60-million. Funding is provided by the MTA LIRR Capital Improvement Program and the Federal Transit Administration.