Kensico Dam Commuters: 'Trains Crowded, But Quiet'

Commuters from up and down the Hudson Line could be seen wandering to their cars at the Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla Monday night.

For many, it was just another day on a crowded train. For a few others, it would be an hour, or longer, before they reached home.

Whatever the case, it was nearly impossible for many of them not to think about the tragic train accident in the Bronx that injured dozens and claimed the life of four people Sunday.

"There was no problem," said Debra Kellman, a Peekskill resident. "I woke up a little bit earlier, but that was by choice."

Kellman said the train was crowded, but no one complained.

"Everyone was just trying to make the best of a difficult day," Kellman said. "I wouldn't say I zoned [Sunday's train derailment out] out, but I think more about the people who lost their lives. I know that accidents happen, but I'm more concerned about the families who lost their loved ones."

David Maresh, a Cortlandt Manor resident, also said his commute went well.

"The only inconvenience was driving down to here," Maresh said. "Everyone kept to themselves as usual. By the time I take the train at 6:30 a.m., everyone just finds a seat, sits down, goes to sleep and waits for the conductor to say 'Grand Central'."

Gene Ricciardelli and his wife, Barbara, drove all the from Rhinebeck. Gene had a doctor's appointment in New York City and the only other option, Amtrak, would've cost them $150 round trip.

"The train was packed coming back, but it was very nice," Barbara said.

"This was much easier for us, even though I have more than an hour drive going back," Gene said.

The parking lot is a maze of tape and orange cones, due to the fact that there's construction work taking place at the Plaza. But officials said there appeared to be enough parking to take in commuters this week.