In March 1983, NJ Transit faced its first statewide rail strike lasting 34 days after failed negotiations with the United Transportation Union. The strike was prompted by disagreements over salary cuts and workday restructuring following NJ Transitâs takeover of passenger rail services from Conrail. Union leaders accused NJ Transit of bad faith negotiations, while the state transportation commissioner warned that the union's demands could lead to significant fare increases. During the strike, supplementary bus services were implemented to assist stranded commuters, illustrating the disruption caused by the cessation of train services.
We couldn't come to terms on wages and hours,'' William J. McAndrew, assistant general chairman of the union told reporters at the time. ''We were miles apart.
Then-State Transportation Commissioner John P. Sheridan Jr. said the union was asking for things that were totally unacceptable that would cause exorbitant fare hikes for the ridership.
It was New Jersey's first statewide rail strike.
Special shuttle services were operated from key park-and-ride locations, as was being done in the wake of this week's strike.
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