Remote work option leaves Patchogue attorney unfazed by LIRR strike

Matthew Nosenchuck, 28, of Patchogue, who takes the train from Ronkonkoma to Penn Station five days a week for his job as an attorney, said he’s largely unfazed by the possible strike, thanks to his firm’s plan to let employees work remotely. Nosenchuck said all of his court appearances are virtual so he would not be forced into the city if service is halted.

“I’m generally pro‑union, so if the strike is good for the workers, then ideologically I’m with them,” he said, though he wasn’t familiar with details of the negotiations.

He praised the LIRR’s efforts to keep commuters informed about how a strike would disrupt service, to help blunt any surprise.

Dorothy Peel, 63, of Riverhead, said she occasionally takes the LIRR from Ronkonkoma to get to New York City and to UBS Arena, where she was headed to a New York Islanders season ticketholder event. She said she understands the frustration the looming strike will cause, but sides with the workers.

“I understand it's going to be an inconvenience for however long they need to get their point across," she said.