SH Town: Commuter Ridership Up

While the summer months will be the real test, just one month after the launch of the South Fork Commuter Connection service Southampton Town officials have announced ridership has more than doubled.

Last week nearly 100 riders used the bus shuttles compared to about 40 during the first week of service beginning March 4.

“We expect those numbers will continue to climb as people discover this alternative solution to sitting in traffic,” Southampton Town Supervisor Jay Schneiderman said.

The South Fork Commuter Connection costs $4.25 each way and includes the shuttle bus. The schedule features two trains in the morning. The first train leaves from Speonk at 6:16 AM and travels east to Amagansett by 7:08 AM. The second train originates at Hampton Bays at 8:26 AM and travels to Montauk by 9:25 AM. There are two afternoon trains that return from Montauk at 2:48 PM and 4:50 PM. The first train gets to Speonk by 4:14 PM and the second ends in Hampton Bays at 5:43 PM.

As traffic on the South Fork continues to build on Sunrise and Montauk highways, the train could become a popular alternative mode of transportation for commuters to get to work, or even for those looking to visit. Some riders are even choosing to walk, bike, or arrange for pickup rather than take the shuttle bus to their destination.

To learn more about the schedules and shuttle bus destinations, visit www.sfccLIRR.com.

desiree@indyeastend.com