The two-year, multi-phase modernization project at Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) Babylon Station reached a major milestone as the station’s newly reconstructed 12-car platforms opened to riders two weeks ahead of schedule.
Forte Construction, in collaboration with lead designer AECOM, MTA Construction & Development (MTA C&D) and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), reconstructed the station’s more than 60-year-old platforms while maintaining uninterrupted train service throughout construction.
“Babylon Station is a vital station within our network; 167 trains operate through this station every weekday,” said LIRR President Rob Free at a June 3 press conference. “In roughly two years’ time, this station has been transformed into a bright and modern facility that both our customers and the community can be proud of. Amazingly, this was all done while providing continued elevator service, minor service changes and minimal customer impact.”
According to MTA data, the Babylon Branch of the LIRR served 13.4 million customers in 2025, making it the second busiest in the LIRR network. As the line’s terminus, Babylon Station serves approximately 5,000 riders daily and acts as a key connection point to the Montauk Branch and destinations across eastern Long Island, particularly during the summer travel season.
Originally opened in 1867 as the South Side Railroad of Long Island, Babylon Station offered the connection to New York City that helped to fuel the growth of Long Island’s South Shore. The current elevated station dates back to 1964
The station is part of a $227M project, inclusive of both the Hollis and Forest Hills Stations, and involves major station accessibility upgrades, including the replacement of two existing elevators to meet ADA requirements, the replacement of two existing escalators, the installation of two new ADA elevators and parking improvements, including new ADA paths of travel.
“Babylon Station serves thousands of riders each day and is a vital transportation hub for Long Island,” said Project Manager Dan Villandre. “Delivering a project of this magnitude while maintaining uninterrupted rail service required careful planning, constant coordination, and an unwavering commitment to safety. Successfully reconstructing and opening the station’s new 12-car platforms ahead of schedule is a testament to the dedication of our project team and the strong partnership between our crews, the MTA, and the Long Island Rail Road. Together, we’ve navigated the complexities of heavy civil construction in an active rail environment while continuing to improve the experience for passengers every day.”
Ongoing work includes the installation of new precast concrete systems, automated snow and ice melting systems, new canopy structures, and upgraded lighting.
The station is expected to see continued infrastructure and accessibility upgrades through the end of the year, including additional elevator and escalator work, communication and security upgrades, plaza-level improvements, ADA upgrades, signage, lighting and architectural finishes.
Photo courtesy of Forte Construction
