The LIRR pays the full cost of maintaining and rent on Tracks 17-21, and half the cost of Tracks 14-17. At least that was the deal prior to the PSCC Agreement. We have exclusive use of 18-21, and use the others at Amtrak's pleasure. We are guaranteed the use of the lower tracks 14- 17 during rush hours.
Typically, if Amtrak wanted to move a baggage car in three hours on Track 17, we were kept off of it. Much of that changed with the advent of Penn Station Central Control. Amtrak and the LIRR alternate command every six months, so the nonsense has gotten a bit less. The working relationship has improved.
Tracks 18-21 are only accessable from East river Tunnels 3 & 4, so when either of them are closed for track work, Amtrak permits use of the lower tracks by us which is why you see Track 14 used sometimes during the day or on weekends. Likewise for the lower tracks; Amtrak uses our tracks when they close Line 1 or 2.
Misroutes are fun. I recall seeing a GG-1 pulling 18 conventional cars come into Track 20...
We've had times that LIRR trains were brought into Tracks as low as 10 either in error, but usually on purpose when track space was scarce and nobody, including the crew knew where they were.
By the way, all LIRR crews must qualify on the entire station and the Hudsen River tunnels. Most NY supervisors are qualified to Bergen. The Amtrak rules examiner administers the NY qualifications.
Clem.