**Train Strike Negotiations Resume in New Jersey**
Negotiations to resolve a strike involving train engineers at New Jersey Transit resumed on Saturday and are expected to continue into Sunday, according to NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri. The strike, which began on Friday, has impacted approximately 350,000 daily commuters, forcing many to work from home or seek alternative transportation options across the state and into New York City.
Speaking at Newark’s Broad Street Station, Kolluri indicated that the agency is ramping up bus services to assist commuters during the workweek. However, he noted that the bus capacity cannot fully accommodate the volume typically served by the commuter rail system. Kolluri mentioned that he and Mark Wallace, President of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, had agreed to meet on Saturday, despite initial uncertainty about whether negotiations would take place before a scheduled National Mediation Board meeting on Sunday.
“We’re going to meet the union today and tomorrow, aiming to reach a deal that allows our engineers to return to work and provides our customers with the reliable service they need,” Kolluri stated. Wallace confirmed that negotiations would resume Saturday afternoon in Newark, expressing optimism about reaching an agreement. “If we come out together, we’ll have a deal,” he said.
The strike marks New Jersey’s first transit work stoppage in over 40 years and follows a recent rejection of a labor agreement by union members. Wallace was seen walking the picket line outside New York City’s Penn Station, emphasizing the engineers’ commitment to striking until a fair deal is achieved. The union had previously authorized a strike last summer, with 87% of members rejecting the latest contract proposal.
Wallace highlighted the need for NJ Transit to offer competitive wages comparable to those at Amtrak and the Long Island Railroad, as many engineers are leaving for better-paying positions at these companies. The union has experienced a steady decline in membership as engineers seek more lucrative opportunities elsewhere.
As negotiations continue, the situation remains fluid, with both sides hopeful for a resolution that will restore service to the thousands of commuters reliant on New Jersey Transit.
**FAQ**
**What is the reason for the NJ Transit strike?**
The strike is primarily due to unresolved contract negotiations, with engineers seeking better wages and working conditions after not receiving a raise in six years.
