Keeping the Greater Newark Region Moving: A Call for Swift Resolution to the NJ Transit Strike

written by Ferlanda Fox Nixon, Esq., President & CEO, NRBP

As President and CEO of NRBP, I am writing to address the serious implications of the current NJ Transit strike and to emphasize the urgent need for a swift resolution. The Greater Newark region is a fundamental transportation hub on the East Coast, and any disruption to our transit systems paralyzes communities well beyond our immediate vicinity.
 
This week is National Transportation Week, a time to recognize and celebrate the pivotal role transportation plays in our economy and daily lives. It is deeply unfortunate that this strike is occurring during this important week, casting a shadow over the very systems we rely upon.
 
Just days ago, on May 12, NRBP held our annual Transportation Awards Breakfast. This event, which convenes leaders from across the transportation sector, underscores the significance we place on a robust and efficient transportation network. We were honored to have Thomas F. Prendergast, CEO of the Gateway Development Commission, as our keynote speaker. The Gateway Program is a testament to the bi-state region's commitment to modernizing and expanding its rail infrastructure.

At the Transportation Awards Breakfast, we recognized the outstanding contributions of individuals who have shaped our transportation landscape. These honorees, and the thousands of dedicated professionals they represent, work tirelessly to ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and goods throughout our region. The ongoing strike directly undermines their efforts and the services they provide.
 
The impact of this strike is extensive. It disrupts the commutes of more than 350,000 NJ Transit rail commuters, hindering their ability to reach their jobs and contribute to our economy. It creates logistical challenges for businesses, affecting the flow of goods and services. It places a significant burden on our roads and highways, exacerbating congestion and increasing travel times. In short, it threatens the economic vitality and overall competitiveness of the entire region.
 
We implore all parties involved in the NJ Transit strike to return to the negotiating table with a renewed sense of urgency and commitment. A swift and equitable resolution is essential to restoring the crucial transportation services upon which our region depends. The NRBP stands ready to work with all stakeholders to facilitate a solution that serves the best interests of our businesses, our workers, and our communities. The time to act is now, to get the region moving again.