LIRR president apologizes for delays

LIRR President Helena E. Williams Tuesday night issued the following statement about the Long Island Rail Road's service disruptions, caused by an electrical fire Monday morning near the Jamaica station.

"I know yesterday was a difficult and trying day for customers of the Long Island Rail Road. I want to apologize for the delays and inconvenience customers endured. The employees of the LIRR are working diligently around the clock to restore service after a devastating fire damaged a key signal cable and switching tower just to the east of Jamaica station.

"We understand your frustration and are grateful for your patience throughout this process. In the immediate aftermath of the fire, some customers had to remain at Penn Station or at stations in Nassau and Suffolk because the LIRR could not run trains safely east or west through Jamaica.

"At this time, the LIRR continues to determine the extent of the damage and take steps to fully restore service safely. Repairs are under way and will continue around the clock for the next several days until the entire signal and switch system is operational.

"Given the safety issues as we attempt to provide service amid ongoing repairs, we will be operating at reduced levels for several days. Again, we ask your patience. We promise to keep you fully informed about service availability as well as our progress as we work to get train service and your commute back to normal.

"Please remember to check our website for the latest information on the status of our service."