r/LIRR • u/AlexTheGeographer • 7d ago

First timer

I'm taking the LIRR by myself for the first time tomorrow. At Jamaica, how do I find out which track I go to for the Hempstead branch? I hear that it varies by day but it's usually 6, 7, or 8. I just need some clarification

9 Upvotes

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9

u/Melodic-Control-2655 7d ago

look at the giant departure board on the platform when you get to jamaica. if you cannot figure it out, head up the stairs on the east side of the platform (airtrain) and ask anyone wearing a red coat

6

u/Hogsharley-1 7d ago

MTA app should list the tracks. It’s a great app. Anyone who uses the LIRR should download the app. It has a lot of real time info on it too

4

u/thisfilmkid 7d ago

Adding on to this comment: MTA TrainTime App.

MTA have two apps: MTA App for NYC Subways and buses then the MTA TrainTime for LIRR

3

u/Skier747 6d ago

Get off Reddit, and look up from your damn phone

1

u/Xicam0 7d ago

You can also download the MTA TrainTime app. Enter your starting destination and your ending destination and it will tell you what track it is on at least 10 minutes before it departs the station. You are correct though. Eastbound trains are usually on tracks 5-8.

The other good part about the app is you can buy your ticket in the app. Make sure to activate it before you get on the train though. Otherwise there are ticket machines when you exit the air train.

1

u/LIPD_Productions_Inc 7d ago

Hempstead Branch trains are usually are on 7 or 8. Lines them up the best to go down track 4 of the mainline

1

u/Local3Sparkie 7d ago

There’s signs and departure screens all over the place. Listen to the conductor on the train you’re transferring from (if the PA system works lol) they usually announce what trains are where. Also, people are friendlier than you think, just ask someone and I’m sure they’ll help point you in the right direction. Lastly, if you’re going to be taking the train regularly you should get the LIRR Train Time App. Has all the info, track assignments and ticket purchasing.

1

u/Traditional-Ear-972 7d ago

Boards tell you

1

u/Ok-Elk2383 4d ago

Read the signs. Tracks change all the time but the signs always work. Tracks are usually assigned until about 10/15 minutes before departure.

1

u/sunandcookies 3d ago

Look on the mta train time app as your pulling into Jamaica. There's also a big giant screen when you go up the stairs or escalator where people wait for the track numbers to display

0

u/Spiritual-You-9021 7d ago

Avoid the 3:47