If you are a commuter like me with access to the internet on your phone and/or text messaging capabilities, you can sign up for LIRR email and text messaging alerts.
These alerts can be customized by time, days and branch. The concept is an excellent one to keep customers informed of delays, cancellations, changes, track work etc.
However- yes there is an however- rarely will the alerts stating there is a problem, come through timely or even at all. There have been several occasions where there were delays and the alert never came through. Instead, an alert stating that the LIRR is on or close to schedule comes through.
I often question if the LIRR even tested the system or if anyone else is complaining about it like me. This past Friday my train was almost over an hour late. I received the update almost two hours after I typically would be arriving at Farmingdale station.
Does anyone else utilize the LIRR email and text message alerts? What are your compliments or complaints about the system?
