New Jersey's commuter rail system faced its first strike in over 40 years, affecting 350,000 daily riders who turned to alternative transport methods. With trains halted at midnight, many commuters opted for buses, taxis, and cars. Although the early morning commute remained relatively unaffected by major traffic, confusion arose among riders seeking new routes, resulting in extra costs. The strike followed failed negotiations between union and management, escalating tensions after a labor agreement was overwhelmingly rejected by union members a month prior, raising concerns about future commutes as the situation develops.
"I left home very early because of it," he said, grabbing the bus in Montclair, New Jersey, and arriving in Manhattan at 7 a.m. "I think a lot of people don't come in on Fridays since COVID. I don't know what's going to happen Monday."
"We presented them the last proposal; they rejected it and walked away with two hours left on the clock," said Tom Haas, general chairman of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen.
Friday's rail commute into New York from New Jersey is typically the lightest of the week.
There was some confusion and extra costs as passengers tried to figure out alternate routes in a system that...helps New Yorkers get to Newark Airport or concerts at the Meadowlands.
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