BLET, New Jersey Transit reach tentative agreement, ending three-day strike

Published: Monday, May 19, 2025 at 2:53 am

New Jersey Transit Strike Ends as Union, State Reach Tentative Deal

New Jersey commuters can breathe a sigh of relief. After a three-day strike, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) and New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) have reached a tentative agreement, ending the first statewide transit strike in over four decades. The strike, which began Friday morning, disrupted rail service for hundreds of thousands of daily riders.

While the specific details of the agreement remain under wraps, the primary sticking point was wages. BLET, representing approximately 450 locomotive engineers, sought a pay raise, citing their members as the lowest-paid among major commuter railroads. The union's general chairman, Tom Haas, stated the new agreement boosts hourly pay beyond a previous proposal rejected by members last month.

The strike stemmed from a breakdown in negotiations, despite a prior agreement reached in March that was ultimately voted down by 87% of the union members. The impact of the work stoppage was significant, with NJ Transit estimating over 350,000 daily riders affected. The Partnership for New York City estimated that each hour of delays cost New York City employers nearly $6 million.

Governor Phil Murphy confirmed the resumption of rail service, with regular weekday service expected to begin Tuesday after necessary inspections and maintenance. The agreement now awaits ratification by BLET members and approval by the NJ Transit Board of Directors.

BNN's Perspective: This agreement is a welcome development for commuters and the regional economy. While the details are still emerging, it's positive to see both sides return to the table and reach a resolution. The focus on wages highlights the importance of fair compensation for essential workers, but the potential economic impact of prolonged strikes underscores the need for both sides to prioritize finding common ground.

Keywords: New Jersey Transit strike, BLET, locomotive engineers, NJ Transit, transit strike, pay raise, wages, commuter rail, Phil Murphy, rail service, tentative agreement, strike ends, New Jersey, transportation, union, work stoppage, commuter delays, New York City, economic impact.

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