Metro-North and Amtrak to Restore Train Service to Albany

Metro-North Railroad and Amtrak are set to restore limited train service between New York City and Albany, following reductions caused by construction work on the East River Tunnel. Starting on December 1, 2023, Amtrak will reinstate one round trip per weekday from Penn Station to Albany. The first train, designated as Train 235, will depart from Penn Station at 15:15, while the return trip, Train 238, will leave Albany at 12:10.

Metro-North’s New Service Marks a Significant Return

In addition to Amtrak’s restoration, Metro-North will introduce a morning service from Grand Central Terminal to Albany, with a return trip scheduled for the afternoon. This will be the first time Metro-North has provided service to Albany since its inception. The line’s predecessor, the New York Central Railroad, operated trains to the state capital until 1967.

The service reductions earlier this year were primarily due to logistical challenges posed by Amtrak’s closure of one of the four tubes in the East River Tunnel, which connects Penn Station to locations to the east. As a result, Amtrak had to cancel three weekday round trips between New York City and Albany starting in May.

Governor Kathy Hochul praised the restoration of service, stating, “Restoring Amtrak service and debuting Metro-North service to Albany is a huge win for riders. While Amtrak’s repairs to the East River Tunnel are necessary, riders from Albany to New York City have had to endure sold-out trains and higher fares for the past five months.”

The East River Tunnel’s full reopening is planned for the end of 2027, as Amtrak continues to address infrastructure improvements. This collaborative effort between Metro-North and Amtrak aims to alleviate the strain on commuters and improve travel options between New York City and Albany.