Jacobs, a global leader in infrastructure and engineering services, has been selected as the program management consultant for the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station improvements project by the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). This significant undertaking will focus on enhancing passenger safety and supporting the MTA’s commitment to on-time service through comprehensive management of construction, design compliance, and risk assessment.
The project’s primary goal is to bring the LIRR’s Babylon, Forest Hills, and Hollis stations into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring better accessibility for all commuters. This includes the installation of ADA-compliant elevators, ramps, and escalators, as well as upgrades to platforms, canopies, and architectural features to create a more welcoming and user-friendly environment. Wayfinding improvements will also be implemented to ensure clearer navigation throughout the stations.
“As the busiest commuter rail system in North America, the Long Island Rail Road is critical to the mobility of New York City and Long Island residents,” said Chrissy Thom, Jacobs’ Senior Vice President. “We are proud to work alongside the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (to modernize this essential infrastructure, improving accessibility and ensuring ADA compliance, while enhancing the travel experience for hundreds of thousands of daily passengers.”
The New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority estimates the total value of the project at $227.5 million, with an anticipated completion by 2026. Jacobs, recognized as the #1 Program Management firm by Engineering News-Record, has a proven track record of delivering some of the most complex infrastructure projects worldwide. These include New York City’s Grand Central Madison, the Thames Tideway Tunnel in the U.K., and the Etihad Rail program in the United Arab Emirates.
Jacobs, with annual revenues of $16 billion and a global workforce exceeding 60,000, is dedicated to transforming tomorrow through innovative solutions for cities, resilient infrastructure, scientific breakthroughs, and sustainable manufacturing. The company provides comprehensive professional services to both the public and private sectors. The LIRR station improvements project is a testament to Jacobs’ commitment to improving infrastructure and creating a more accessible and sustainable future for all.