Huntington/Port Jefferson Branch Customers

We regret the significant delays experienced by LIRR Huntington/Port Jefferson Branch customers on Thursday afternoon, July 2. A water main broke near the Avery Road grade crossing, sending water and debris across the tracks, as the 3:37 PM train from Penn Station to Huntington was passing through the area. One set of wheels on the first car derailed, but fortunately, we received no report of serious injuries.

Train service east of Hicksville was suspended for about 90 minutes while the situation was assessed and the second track at Avery Road thoroughly inspected to ensure it was structurally sound. A rescue train was then routed onto the second track and brought alongside the derailed train. LIRR employees made sure that passengers from the derailed train were safely evacuated to the rescue train and then provided with eastbound train service to get them home.

Using the second track, eastbound train service resumed shortly after 6:20 PM with residual delays averaging about an hour. Westbound service resumed at about 7:30 PM.

After 9 PM, train service was again temporarily suspended for rerailing efforts and track repairs. Bus service was provided between Huntington and Hicksville while this work took place.

Normal service was restored in time for the AM rush hour.