Potential NJ Transit Strike Looms, Threatening Commuters
A NJ Transit strike could disrupt service in just weeks, affecting around 350,000 daily riders after the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen majority rejected the agency’s latest contract offer. Negotiations are currently deadlocked over salary raises, with NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri warning that the union’s demands could lead to a 17% fare increase and a 27% hike in corporate transit fees.
Union officials contest Kolluri’s claims, arguing that their current base salary of $89,000 needs adjustment to match industry standards in the region. “We need to be brought to a wage more in line with other passenger railroads,” said union spokesperson Tom Haas. Kolluri criticized the demands as unrealistic, emphasizing that taxpayers cannot shoulder the burden of exorbitant salaries.
Commuters echoed concerns about fare increases, emphasizing the need for reliable and affordable service. “In this economy, we don’t need any more increases,” expressed one commuter. NJ Transit is preparing a contingency plan should a strike occur, with further details to be announced. Meanwhile, Governor Phil Murphy has engaged in discussions to minimize service disruptions following last summer’s challenges.
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