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The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has announced the ongoing construction at the Babylon LIRR station will be completed by December 2026.
Once fully complete, the facelift will include a modernized station plaza and platform, with two new elevators and “renewed elevators,” according to the MTA.
What’s being called a major accessibility upgrade and station renovation project started last month.
Babylon is one of three LIRR stations receiving the upgrade package, along with Hollis and Forest Hills in Queens.
“These major improvements will improve passenger circulation and create a more welcoming station environment for Babylon’s 5,000 daily riders,”said MTA construction and development president, Jamie Torres-Springer.
The project is being phased in such a way to avoid construction during peak ridership months from May to September, MTA officials also said.
Platform and canopy demolition began Sept. 14 to make way for the rebuilding of the western half of the platforms.
In the meantime, the usual 12-train car platform has been reduced to a six-car platform. In September 2024, phase 2 of the project will begin, when the eastern end of the platform will close and the newly enhanced western end will open.
The entire 12-car platform is scheduled to reopen in May 2026. All other substantial work should be wrapped up by December 2026, officials said.
The current street-to-platform elevators are still available.
Scroll down for renderings of what the finished work will look like.
Top: Platform and canopy demolition began Sept. 14 to make way for the rebuilding of the western half of the platforms. (MTA courtesy photo)
Here is a full list of the work, as provided by the MTA:
- Installation of two new elevators that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Rehabilitation of two existing elevators.
- Replacement of two existing escalators.
- Replacement of the two center island platforms.
- Replacement of platform canopy and all platform lighting.
- Installation of an automated snow and ice melting system that will keep the platform free of snow and ice during winter storms.
- Upgrades to the station plaza, including new concrete pavers, updated signage, and new and improved lighting.
- Reconfiguration and improvement of parking in conformation with requirement of the Americans with Disabilities Act, including new curb cuts.
- New communication and security systems.
- Eight replaced and refurbished existing stairwells.
- Two refurbished Platform Waiting Rooms.
