Report warns that LIRR union strike is costing the regional economy tens of millions a day

The LIRR strike could cost the state up to $61 million in lost economic activity each day, according to a state comptroller’s report.

“A LIRR strike will be felt far beyond the tracks, triggering the loss of millions of dollars per day in lost economic activity, disrupting thousands of riders and throwing the region’s transit service into chaos and gridlock,” Comptroller Tom DiNapoli warned in a statement a day before the strike began.

Striking LIRR workers at Ronkonkoma station on May 18, 2026. John Roca for NY Post

A sign announcing the LIRR strike is seen in Mineola on May 18, 2026. Dennis A. Clark for NY Post

The projection is based on LIRR ridership information, as well as census and economic data, according to the comptroller’s office.