NJ Transit Strike: Chaos on the Rails!
For the first time since 1983, NJ Transit train engineers have gone on strike, leaving 350,000 daily commuters scrambling for alternative transportation. The strike, which began Friday at midnight, is a direct result of a contract dispute centering on wages.
The Heart of the Matter: Wages
The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) union claims its members earn an average of $113,000 annually and are seeking a raise to $170,000. NJ Transit disputes these figures, citing an average of $135,000, with top earners exceeding $200,000. This significant wage discrepancy is the main sticking point in negotiations.
Impact on Commuters:
The impact on commuters is substantial. All NJ Transit rail service, including Metro-North west of the Hudson, is suspended. While NJ Transit is adding extra buses, they can only accommodate about 20% of usual ridership. Alternative options like PATH trains, ferries, and driving are expected to be overwhelmed, leading to significant delays and congestion. Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla urged residents to avoid driving if possible.
<img src="https://media.nbcphiladelphia.com/2025/05/39633363944-1080pnbcstations.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&resize=850%2C478" alt="Alternate commute options">What's Next?
Negotiations are ongoing, but the duration of the strike remains uncertain. The 1983 strike lasted approximately a month. The possibility of Congressional intervention exists, but it's unclear if this will happen. The situation remains fluid, and commuters should be prepared for significant disruptions.
Who is BLET?
The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) is a major rail labor union in the US and is the oldest rail labor union in North America. They represent over 51,500 members.
<img src="https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2025/05/GettyImages-2214734088.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&w=5000" alt="BLET members on strike">
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