NJ Transit and the Amalgamated Transit Union announced a tentative agreement May 7, potentially averting a disruption for thousands of bus and light rail riders, but the risk of a transit strike is not yet past us. Details of the deal remain confidential pending a union membership vote.
The agreement covers over 5,500 workers including bus operators, mechanics, and clerical staff. NJ Transit provides nearly a million trips on weekdays.
In a statement, NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri called the deal “fair and fiscally responsible.” ATU officials echoed the sentiment, calling the outcome a reflection of shared commitment to workers and the public.
Meanwhile, according to Railway Age, talks continue between NJ Transit and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), whose members rejected a previous agreement in April. A strike or lockout could begin as early as May 16.
BLET represents NJ Transit’s 460 engineers. In a recent vote, 87% opposed the tentative contract, which had been in negotiation since 2019.
The agency has warned that a work stoppage would halt all commuter rail service, including Metro-North lines operating west of the Hudson River. Contingency plans would offer limited alternative service, mostly via bus and private carriers.
NJ Transit estimates it could accommodate roughly 20% of regular rail commuters under the plan. The MTA also plans to honor tickets for Rockland and Orange County riders on its Harlem and Hudson lines starting May 12.
Union leaders say engineers have gone without a raise for nearly five years and are paid less than counterparts at similar agencies. However, NJ Transit has stated that the proposed salary of $190,000 by the union could bankrupt the service.
BLET will begin running a television ad next week to inform residents of the contract battle. The ads tagline states: “NJT has millions for pet projects and penthouse views. Isn’t it time it paid train crews?”
Talks are scheduled to resume in Washington, D.C., under the guidance of the National Mediation Board. Both sides have expressed a desire to avoid a strike.
Kolluri said on May 9 that NJ Transit remains focused on reaching a resolution and maintaining service for the agency’s 350,000 daily rail customers.
UPDATE: The Federal Mediation Board has summoned the two parties to meet in D.C. next week to help move negotiations forward.
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