LIRR strike threat grows as commuters brace for possible shutdown

A potential Long Island Rail Road strike could begin Saturday, with negotiations continuing between the MTA and unions representing thousands of workers. The dispute centers on pay, with unions seeking a 5% raise in the fourth year of the contract while the MTA says a larger increase could lead to fare hikes or service cuts. If a strike happens, LIRR service could shut down entirely, impacting about 300,000 daily commuters. Officials say limited shuttle bus service would run during peak hours from select Long Island stations to Queens, where riders would need to connect to the subway.