The MTA hoped to have the M9A trains in place for the 2023 opening of Grand Central Madison, which came with a significant increase in the number of trains operated daily. But the award of a contract was slowed by COVID-19-related supply chain issues and other financial challenges at the MTA. The delay forced the LIRR to extend the life of its 40-year-old M3 fleet, which will be retired with the arrival of the M9As. For more on these new trains, visit the link in bio. (Photo Credit: MTA) #mta #trains #mtalirr #longisland #liny #longislandny #nyc #newyork #newyorkcity #transit #publictransit #nassaucountyny #suffolkcountyny #queensny #brooklynny