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The MTA announced the completion of modernization efforts at the Croton-Harmon Yard in Croton-On-Hudson meant to improve train reliability and performance on Friday, May 10.
According to MTA officials, the project, which included state and federal funding, was started in 2001 after the site was determined to be inadequate at meeting the needs of crews who maintain the railroad's fleet of trains.
The project's final phase, the construction of a brand-new 400,000-square-foot facility called the Harmon Shop, will improve the railroad's ability to perform maintenance on train cars and locomotives and account for unscheduled repairs.
Other phases of the multi-decade project included constructing service tracks and wayside power to reduce noise to surrounding neighbors; a new coach and locomotive shop; a new wheel storage canopy; and new repair and support shops.
Several New York state officials commended the project's completion.
"Today’s announcement builds on our commitment to ensuring our transit systems remain safe, effective, and rider-friendly," said New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, who continued, "These upgrades are investments for the railroad to operate reliably for the public, with trains arriving on time and with enough cars to carry all the passengers who want to ride."
Metro-North President Catherine Rinaldi also praised the finished project, saying, "The Harmon Yard is the heart of Metro-North's operations, and the timing of this project completion could not be better."
"Metro-North is currently in the middle of an impressive streak – four straight years with an on-time performance of at least 97 percent. Now, with a completed Harmon Yard, the railroad can continue to deliver exceptional service to the tens of thousands daily riders," Rinaldi continued.
The Croton-Harmon Yard, which officials said is "vital" to Metro-North operations, has been a part of the railroad's operations for more than a century, officials said.
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