NJ Transit Faces Strike Threat as Deadline Looms for Train Engineers

NEWARK, New Jersey — Negotiations between NJ Transit and its engineers’ union resume Thursday, just hours before a potential strike that could disrupt services for over 350,000 commuters. The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen has warned of a walkout beginning at midnight if an agreement isn’t reached by the deadline.

On Wednesday, union members held a rally outside NJ Transit headquarters, demanding fair wages. Engineer Daniel Feyjoo, who has worked for NJ Transit for 19 years, expressed the union’s frustrations. “We take a lot of pride in what we do, but we also need to put food on the table,” he said.

The union claims its members earn around $113,000 annually, while NJ Transit officials argue that the average total earnings are approximately $135,000, with some engineers making over $200,000. NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri described the disparity in figures as a barrier to progress in negotiations.

After months of discussions, key issues remain stuck in contention, mainly concerning wages and working conditions. The union is requesting annual salaries near $170,000, a figure deemed unsustainable by NJ Transit. “While they want a fair wage, I must ensure it’s fiscally responsible,” Kolluri stated.

If a strike occurs, it would be the first transit strike in New Jersey in over 40 years, severely impacting daily commuters traveling between New Jersey and New York City. NJ Transit is preparing for this possibility by implementing a contingency plan that includes charter buses and increased bus services, although they acknowledge this will only cover a fraction of rail demand.

In anticipation of the potential disruptions, NJ Transit has urged commuters to work from home if possible. The agency is also cooperating with the Port Authority to accommodate increased vehicular traffic expected during the peak hours. “We advise everyone to prepare for crowding and delays,” NJ Transit officials remarked.

Tensions are high as both sides try to navigate these talks ahead of the deadline. “We will meet again tomorrow. Hopefully, we will get a resolution,” said Tom Haas, General Chairman of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers.