Summer of Hell Day 2: Disruptions not living up to hype

NEW YORK (FOX 5 NEWS) - On Day 2 of what was dubbed the "Summer of Hell" hasn't quite lived up to its name. And for that, LIRR commuters are grateful.

Many of the LIRR riders that spoke to Fox 5 said they usually commute in and out of Penn Station but have changed their plans because of the service disruptions.

The LIRR is running on a modified schedule through August as Amtrak makes critical track repairs at Penn Station. The system has been plagued by a series of high-profile meltdowns including derailments and power outages.

Sean McCalla has opted to go into Atlantic Terminal in Brooklyn and hop a subway to his job to avoid crowds and take advantage of a 25-percent fare reduction.

Several riders told us rerouting their commutes has cost them some extra time, but many expected it to be worse.

The MTA has stationed extra ambassadors to direct commuters and is offering free subway transfers from Atlantic Terminal during the morning rush to try to lessen the sting.

So far, so good, said MTA Chairman Joe Lhota and Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

But with 8 weeks of track work and service reduction ahead, riders are proceeding with caution.