The Long Island Rail Road is hoping to be granted a two-year extension as it works to fully implement positive train control technology throughout its system.

The original deadline for full implementation was Dec. 31, 2018.  

PTC works using radio transponders that are installed on the tracks and on trains that communicate with each other to automatically slow down or stop a train if it's going too fast, violates a signal or is about to hit another train.

MTA Board Member Mitch Pally says the LIRR will meet the minimum standards of compliance by the end of the year. That includes having most hardware installed, having most employees trained and showing that the system works on most passenger lines.

“We know we can show that the PTC works. What we need to work on is that it's safe and reliable. Repetitively,” he told News 12.

The Federal Railroad Administration says railroads can get a two-year extension if the minimum requirements are met. The LIRR will learn within a few months whether that extension will be granted.