Amtrak will reduce service between Penn Station and Albany for East River Tunnel repairs – but everyone from interstate commuters to the governor is bracing for three years of transit chaos.

Amtrak has announced significant changes to its train service between Albany and New York City, effective April 28, as part of a multi-year rehabilitation project for the East River Tunnel, which suffered extensive damage during Superstorm Sandy in 2012. The latest updates include a reduction of two Empire Service trains, which has raised widespread concern among commuters and officials alike about potential service disruptions and overcrowding. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has expressed her deep disappointment over these cuts in a stern letter to Amtrak's leadership, urging them to either modify their repair schedule to minimize impact during peak hours or augment the existing service to accommodate travelers. Critics of Amtrak's plan point to the strategic necessity of keeping rail services operational, especially for long-distance travelers who find trains more convenient than flying. As commuter numbers are expected to swell, officials from the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) have echoed similar concerns, suggesting that the reduced capacity in train service could exacerbate minor operational issues into larger-scale service disruptions. Moreover, MTA members and other passenger advocates have raised alarms about the impact of these changes, suggesting that the disruptions could resonate beyond just the Amtrak services, potentially backing up local commuter routes and causing broader chaos in travel plans. Notably, Amtrak maintains that the project is vital for long-term infrastructure improvements, promising enhanced reliability in the future despite the short-term inconvenience. Aiming for completion by 2028, the tunnel renovations will ultimately serve an essential role in fortifying the rail network along the Northeast Corridor. As changes unfold, transportation officials and passenger advocates are hopeful that Amtrak will remain responsive to the needs of its riders and adjust their operational strategies in the months to come.