The Metropolitan Transportation Authority Board officially rolled back its previously adopted transit service cuts Wednesday, and also confirmed Long Island Rail Road president Helena Williams as the MTA’s new interim chief.

To help close an unprecedented $1.2-billion budget gap, the board earlier this year approved widespread cuts in service throughout the MTA, including the reduction and elimination of subways, buses and LIRR trains.

But a $2.3-billion rescue package passed by the State Legislature allowed the MTA to avoid the cuts – most of which were set to take place next month.

The only cut already enacted was the elimination of daily LIRR service to Belmont Park. That service is expected to resume Thursday.

Also at its Manhattan meeting Wednesday, the MTA Board formally voted to confirm Williams as the interim chief executive and executive director of the MTA. The nomination of Williams, who has served as LIRR president since 2007, follows the recent resignation of MTA chief Elliot Sander.

Williams will keep her LIRR position and lead the MTA until Gov. David A. Paterson nominates and the State Senate approves someone to the newly combined office of MTA chairperson and chief executive.

Source: Newsday