POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y – Time is money.
This week marked the launch of some new and improved Metro-North Railroad routes for passengers that could save them time.
Justin Vonashek, president of MTA Metro-North Railroad, said traveling between Poughkeepsie and New York City can now take less than 90 minutes on a “super-express” train.
“Just this week, we released six super express trains,” Vonashek said. “Poughkeepsie to Grand Central Station; five of those are less than 90 minutes.”
Officials said Gov. Kathy Hochul challenged MTA conductors to get riders between the Scenic Hudson Valley and New York City in under 90 minutes. Vonashek said already, the MTA employees have proven that they’re up for the challenge.
While the increase in accessibility for passengers went into effect this week, Vonashek said he’s already monitoring an increase in ridership in neighboring states, like New Haven, Conn.
“What I can say is on the New Haven super expresses, we did see a 10% increase in ridership on those trains,” Vonashek said. “I think every minute counts, right? So, saving 14 minutes off your trip every single day is huge. As much as people love riding Metro-North, I think they’ll love being with their family and friends and using that time for other things.”