Jacobs has been appointed by the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) as the programme management consultant for the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station improvements project in the US. 

The initiative is centred on passenger safety and supporting MTA’s commitment to punctual service.  

Jacobs's role will encompass supervising construction and commercial management, ensuring design compliance, and identifying potential risks. 

The design-build contract is set to modernise three LIRR stations: Babylon, Forest Hills, and Hollis.  

The objective is to make these stations compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  

The LIRR caters to approximately 260,000 customers every day.  

The enhancements planned include the installation and refurbishment of ADA-compliant elevators, escalators, and ramps.  

Additionally, platform and canopy replacements are on the agenda, alongside architectural and wayfinding upgrades to improve station functionality and customer comfort. 

MTA has estimated the total contract value for this project at $227.5m, with an expected completion date in 2026.  

Jacobs senior vice-president Chrissy Thom said: “As the busiest commuter rail system in North America, Long Island Rail Road provides essential mobility to Long Island and the wider New York City metropolitan area. 

“Leveraging our integrated approach to complex delivery on similar global programmes, we’ll work with the MTA to tackle its ageing infrastructure, improve access and bring three crucial pieces of their system into ADA compliance and a state of good repair - connecting New York City commuters to their destinations smoothly into the future.”  

Earlier in the year, Jacobs secured a role to provide programme management and consultancy services for King County Wastewater Treatment Division’s infrastructure upgrade project, valued at more than $800m.