TARRYTOWN- “Hudson Valley and New York City residents and businesses need round-the-clock rail service,” said Assemblyman Tom Abinanti (D-Greenburgh/Mount Pleasant) as he announced that he has been pressing the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to adjust the hours of Grand Central Station and Metro North railroad to serve passengers 24-hours-a-day.

The Westchester Assemblyman has sent three letters to MTA Chairman Joe Lhota, arguing that workers with unconventional hours in either New York City or northern suburbs face significant challenges commuting into or from the City.

Abinanti also argued that many city restaurants and recreational destinations are open most of the night, attracting more and more people – leaving suburbanites who miss the last train stranded.

Abinanti has rejected the pushback he received from the MTA which cites the need for additional personnel and trains to accommodate the request.

“The northern suburbs have changed so they now host many businesses attracting City workers – many with early morning shifts,” Abinanti stated. “And many northern residents need to get to work at unconventional times or just want to enjoy New York City. The MTA has to change to meet changing lifestyles.”

Abinanti noted that Pennsylvania Station and the Long Island Railroad serve their passengers 24-hours-a-day while Grand Central Station closes with the last Metro North train at 2:00AM and opens at 6:00AM for the first morning train. “Why are northern suburbs given second-class treatment?” asked Abinanti.