Photo: Kena Betancur / Getty Images News / Getty Images
New Jersey Transit rail service has come to a standstill as engineers from the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen commenced a strike early Friday (May 16). The strike, the first in over 40 years, follows failed negotiations over wage increases, with engineers demanding pay parity with their counterparts at PATH and Long Island Rail Road. NJ Transit, however, cites financial constraints as the reason for not meeting these demands.
The strike is expected to significantly disrupt the daily commute for tens of thousands of passengers in the New York metropolitan area. Commuters are now seeking alternative transportation options such as ferries, buses, and Amtrak, though the latter comes at a high cost. NJ Transit has advised non-essential workers to work from home and plans to introduce additional bus services by Monday, though these will only accommodate a fraction of the displaced train riders.
According to The New York Times, the union's national president, Mark Wallace, criticized NJ Transit for prioritizing other projects over fair wages for frontline workers. NJ Transit's chief executive, Kris Kolluri, expressed optimism about reaching a deal, emphasizing the importance of meeting riders' expectations.
The economic impact of the strike could be substantial, affecting local businesses and causing potential productivity losses. With many commuters working in high-paying sectors like finance, delays could cost employers millions in lost productivity. The strike also affects events, with NJ Transit canceling services to venues like the Prudential Center and MetLife Stadium.