Train commuters are bracing for a possible NJ Transit strike that could happen as soon as Friday.
The impact would extend well beyond tens of thousands of displaced daily train commuters. A surge of rail commuters hitting the roads could worsen traffic on highways, including Interstate 80, where all lanes remain closed in Wharton in Morris County for sinkhole repairs.
Those who have the flexibility to work remotely from home are being advised by NJ Transit to do so in the event of a work stoppage. It would be the first NJ Transit strike since 1983.
Negotiations are expected to intensify this week. Representatives from NJ Transit and the union, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, are scheduled to meet Monday at the behest of the National Mediation Board.
A strike could happen at 12:01 a.m. Friday, at some time afterward — or not at all.
Amid so much uncertainty, here’s what we know:
What’s in dispute?
NJ Transit and the union, which represents approximately 460 engineers, are at odds over pay raises.
The union is seeking a salary increase, which NJ Transit said might require raising fares and boosting a state tax on businesses. The tax was approved last year by the state Legislature to address NJ Transit‘s funding gap.
The two sides have been unable to agree on pay raises. NJ Transit rejected a counter-offer from the union on May 5.
Both sides said last week they have agreed on 95% of the contract issues. Wages are the only sticking point.
Wasn’t there an NJ Transit agreement last week?
Yes, but with a different union.
NJ Transit reached a tentative deal Wednesday with the Amalgamated Transit Union, which represents 5,500 bus drivers and mechanics.
Approximately two-thirds of NJ Transit’s passengers ride intercity and local buses.
Neither the union nor NJ Transit immediately disclosed details of the tentative agreement.
Strikes often are averted at the last minute, right?
Yes, NJ Transit has avoided strikes at the last minute in the past.
“These things always come down to the end,” then-Gov. Chris Christie said in 2016 after an agreement was reached one day before a strike deadline.
How long did the 1983 strike last?
NJ Transit’s last strike lasted 34 days.
Can the federal government block a strike?
NJ Transit CEO Kris Kolluri told the New York Times Congress could intervene under the federal Railway Labor Act to prevent a strike.
The federal law, which dates to 1926, does not bar strikes. But it includes a requirement for extensive negotiations and mediations.
However, the current NJ Transit union dispute has been extensively mediated. Two boards appointed last year by then-President Joe Biden failed to bring about a consensus.
What’s the backup plan?
NJ Transit will add buses starting Monday, May 19, if a strike happens. But the agency said it only has enough bus space for approximately 20% of the estimated 100,000 daily train commuters.
Supplemental bus service will operate weekdays only from temporary park and rides at Secaucus Junction bus terminal, Woodbridge Center mall, the PNC Arts center in Holmdel and Hamilton train station.
Will there be private charter buses to New York City?
Some New Jersey towns are trying to organize charter buses to take commuters to New York City if trains are unavailable.
Metuchen was trying last week to gather enough residents to launch a commuter bus route with charter bus company Boxcar.
“We’re working with Boxcar to launch a direct commuter bus route from Metuchen to NYC giving our residents a reliable backup option before chaos hits,” borough officials wrote in a post to the Metuchen’s Facebook page.
Boxcar was also trying to gauge interest in charter bus routes from other towns.
Boxcar also planned to expanding its “Bergen Bullet” route, which has stops in Waldwick, Ho Ho Kus and Ridgewood.
Will a strike have ripple effects?
An NJ Transit strike could trigger other transit changes around the region, including worsening traffic due to displaced NJ Transit passengers driving to work.
Newark Light Rail will operate extended peak hour service if a strike happens, NJ Transit said. NJ Transit will also add bus service on regular routes.
While NJ Transit rail tickets and passes will be cross-honored on all NJ Transit bus and light rail lines, private bus carriers, PATH, SEPTA, PATCO and Amtrak will not accept NJ Transit rail tickets.
Is there a silver lining to a strike?
NJ Transit will cancel any non-essential roadwork and construction on its own system during a strike.
Will help be available for commuters?
NJ Transit employees will be available in parking lots and at train stations to provide information if a strike happens.
Stories by Rob Jennings
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Rob Jennings may be reached at rjennings@njadvancemedia.com.