Governor Kathy Hochul announced that Metro-North Railroad will extend its service north from Manhattan to Albany-Rensselaer Station, with new stops in Rhinecliff and Hudson, starting in spring 2026. This marks the first time the commuter line will directly connect New York City to the Capital Region. The expansion aims to fill gaps left by suspended Amtrak Empire Service trains during ongoing East River Tunnel repairs.

The new service will include one daily round trip between Grand Central Terminal and Albany, providing more travel options and lower fares for over two million annual riders. Amtrak will also restore one of its suspended round trips on December 1 and introduce a $99 price cap on Empire Service tickets. Governor Hochul stated, "This new plan will provide more travel options and lower fares for over two million annual riders, saving them time and putting money back in their pockets."

Local leaders in the Hudson Valley and Capital Region praised the expansion as transformative. Rhinebeck Mayor Gary Bassett emphasized the importance of reliable, affordable rail service for the vitality of river communities. Town of Rhinebeck Supervisor Elizabeth Spinzia noted that expanding Metro-North access north of Poughkeepsie invests in a more sustainable transportation network.

The plan includes non-passenger test trains beginning later this year. Once operational, the morning train will depart from Grand Central to Albany, with the return trip in the afternoon. The new Metro-North extension revives a historic connection last operated by the New York Central Railroad in 1967.

The expansion is expected to benefit last-minute travelers and those departing from Manhattan's East Side and Harlem. Fares for the new service will be pegged to the lowest Amtrak rate, around $40 one-way. While some concerns about potential tax increases have been raised, Governor Hochul assured that the expansion would not lead to an increase in payroll mobility tax for newly served counties.

Chris Davis