Long Island transit ridership grows amid congestion concerns

Regional mobility data released during the 14th annual Car Free Day LI at Farmingdale State College highlights shifting transportation trends on Long Island. Officials noted that addressing traffic congestion requires reducing the number of single-occupancy vehicles through improved transit, bicycling, and walking rather than solely widening highways.

Recent data shows growth in regional transit usage. Long Island Rail Road ridership reached 7.9 million in June, including a record 5 million rides outside of traditional commuting hours, marking a nearly 5% increase year-to-date. Additionally, Suffolk County Transit reported a ridership increase of over 40% following a system redesign, while Nassau County’s NICE Bus has seen higher weekend travel volumes.