The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has announced that it will extend Metro-North Railroad service to Albany, New York, providing a once-a-day round trip between Grand Central Terminal and the Albany area. This expansion, set to commence in the spring of 2024, marks the first commuter train service linking Grand Central and Albany-Rensselaer since 1967. Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted the new service as an alternative to existing Amtrak trains that operate between Manhattan’s Penn Station and the Capital Region.
The extended service will see Metro-North’s Hudson Line expand approximately 80 miles beyond its current northern terminus at Poughkeepsie. The round-trip train will depart Grand Central in the mid-morning and return in the afternoon, with stops at Rhinecliff, Hudson, and Albany-Rensselaer. According to the governor’s office, while a specific fare has not yet been established, it is expected to be around $40—similar to the lower end of Amtrak’s one-way ticket prices. Unlike Amtrak, which employs variable pricing that can exceed $100, Metro-North will implement fixed fares for the new service.
Addressing Capacity and Competition
Governor Hochul’s announcement comes amid tensions between the MTA and Amtrak, particularly over the ongoing closure of one of Amtrak’s East River tunnels for repairs. MTA Chair Janno Lieber has advocated for Amtrak to conduct repairs during nights and weekends rather than shutting the tunnel entirely. The closure has strained Amtrak’s capacity, leading to the cancellation of two daily trips between New York City and Albany-Rensselaer earlier this year.
“Extending Metro-North’s safe, reliable service to Albany closes a critical gap in regional transit by restoring capacity and connecting New York City and Hudson Valley communities with the high-quality service our customers expect,” stated Justin Vonashek, President of Metro-North, in a press release. The new route is anticipated to benefit over two million annual riders, providing them with more travel options at lower fares.
In conjunction with Metro-North’s expansion, Amtrak has committed to adding a daily train in each direction between New York City and Albany-Rensselaer starting on December 1, 2023. Additionally, Amtrak will cap coach flex fares at $99 round trip for this route, as indicated by the governor’s office.
This strategic service expansion by Metro-North not only enhances regional connectivity but also introduces competitive pricing and options for travelers between New York City and Albany. Governor Hochul emphasized that this initiative aims to save commuters both time and money, making transportation more efficient and accessible.