New York braces for chaotic Monday commute amid Long Island Rail Road strike

"Gov. Kathy Hochul said the state and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority were preparing emergency transportation alternatives, including shuttle buses from Long Island into Queens and additional subway service, after negotiations between the MTA and rail unions broke down this weekend, prompting workers to walk off the job and shutting down the railroad Saturday."

""Let's face the facts: it's impossible to fully replace LIRR service," Hochul told reporters Sunday at a press conference. The strike - the LIRR's first in roughly 30 years - has halted service on one of the nation's busiest commuter rail systems, which carries hundreds of thousands of riders between Long Island and New York City."

"Shuttle buses for essential workers were set begin operating at about 4:30 a.m. Monday from six locations across Nassau and Suffolk counties to subway connections in Queens. Officials repeatedly urged commuters who are able to work remotely to stay home during the strike."

"MTA officials blamed union leadership for walking away from negotiations, saying the transit agency remained willing to continue bargaining. "We made it clear we are available if they want to come back and negotiate," MTA CEO Janno Lieber said. "They walked out and they went on strike.""

New York officials urged commuters to work from home as a Long Island Rail Road strike threatened travel disruptions for hundreds of thousands of riders. Gov. Kathy Hochul said the state and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority were preparing emergency alternatives after negotiations broke down and workers walked off the job, shutting down service. Hochul said LIRR service could not be fully replaced. Shuttle buses for essential workers were scheduled to begin around 4:30 a.m. Monday from six locations in Nassau and Suffolk counties to subway connections in Queens, along with additional subway service. Officials urged remote work where possible. MTA officials blamed union leadership for ending negotiations, while unions accused MTA leadership of forcing a shutdown over wage increases.

Read at NBC News