NYS Invests $150M Connecting MacArthur Airport And LIRR

RONKONKOMA, NY — New York State will invest a "transformational" $150 million to connect the Long Island Rail Road’s Ronkonkoma Station with the proposed $40 million North Terminal at MacArthur Airport, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday.

Officials said the money will significantly improve accessibility and enhance the region’s transportation infrastructure.

According to Hochul's office, the project will include a pedestrian walkway linking the airport and LIRR station, redesigned road networks and upgrades to various infrastructure.

"Long Islanders deserve modern, efficient transit systems that make their daily lives easier and fuel local economic growth," Hochul said. "By improving transit access, redesigning road networks, and enhancing critical infrastructure, we are unlocking new opportunities for businesses, tourism, and economic development."

Hochul added that the improvement will create "good-paying" union jobs and "transform" how Long Islanders connect with each other and the rest of the world.

Founded as a military airfield in 1942, MacArthur is now recognized as one of the best small airports in America. In 2024, the airport received its fourth nomination for USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Small Airports and finished in third place.

The airport has also expanded with numerous new flights around the United States with new routes on JetBlue and Breeze Airways.

"Commercial Development at Ronkonkoma South represents an incredible opportunity for the region and certainly maximizes the potential of our regional airport. With this investment, we are laying the foundation for long-term economic growth, bringing in high-quality jobs, and creating new opportunities for our young professionals to live and work right here in our community," said Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter. "We are also leveraging the investments made in our transportation infrastructure, including the enhancements to the LIRR and the future potential of Amtrak service."