Mechanics at the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail in New Jersey voted overwhelmingly on Thursday to join the Transport Workers Union of America, fulfilling the TWU’s goal of wall-to-wall industrial trade union organizing. All workers at the privately-operated NJ Transit light rail system are now part of the TWU.
“The TWU knows that worker power comes from a unified front, all crafts and classes in one big union,” said TWU International President John Samuelsen. “With Mechanics at Hudson-Bergen Light Rail joining the TWU, we now have a unified workforce ready to fight more effectively. Today’s successful vote now sets up bargaining for a first contract that will lead to better pay, quality-of-life, and working conditions for NJ Transit Mechanics.”
The Mechanics at the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail work for North Central Transit Services, a private operator that also oversees TWU-represented Car Cleaners on the light rail line. Operators and Maintenance of Way workers at the light rail are also part of the TWU, though they work for ACI-Herzog.
“Today’s successful election shows the power of the TWU in New Jersey,” said TWU Transit, Universities, Utilities, and Services Division Director Willie Brown. “We now begin the work of getting a first contract for Mechanics that will address securing a living wage, better working conditions, and management that bullies workers.”
TWU Local 229 represents Hudson-Bergen Light Rail Workers and Thursday’s election will see their ranks grow by 30 percent.
“The TWU continues to be America’s Fightback Union with our latest successful election,” said TWU Organizing Director Angelo Cucuzza. “We will keep winning representation elections and contract fights across the country.”