Lawmaker demands LIRR do better

It may be a new year but it is the same old story of service disruptions and delays when it comes to the Long Island Rail Road.

Dozens of disruptions in December prompted state Sen. Todd Kaminsky to demand an investigation. A damaged rail in Amtrak's East River tunnel Wednesday morning caused changes and cancellations for commuters who crowded outside of Jamaica Station.

"We have to upgrade our signals and our tracks but having a real plan for the East River Tunnel is critical," Kaminsky said. "I'm not an alarmist, I don't like raising alarm where it's not necessary, but I believe we're playing with danger when we're not going to repair these tunnels for six, seven years."

A spokesperson said the LIRR is committed to operating the safest, most efficient railroad in the country.

"This season was more difficult than usual because the leaves dropped in a very short time frame at the end of November and December," the spokesperson said in a statement.

Riders aren't buying it. One commuter fold Fox 5 he believes the MTA puts money toward salaries and not infrastructure.

"I understand it's cold out but it's cold in New York," Kaminsky said. "A lot of other countries are a lot colder that have a good rail system.

LIRR crews were preparing the trains, tracks, and rails for Thursday's snow, the MTA said. Depending on how much snow falls, service may be modified or suspended.