NJ transit locomotive engineers on strike after failing to reach a contract deal. (CREDIT: AP News)
The first NJ Transit strike since 1983 is officially active on Friday and it's causing a lot of undue stress for commuters in Philadelphia.
The strike came as a response to a contract dispute, mostly over wages, between the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen and the NJ Transit leadership.
The strike has paused all NJ Transit rail services and is greatly impacting New Jersey residents and their daily commutes to and from work.
Those residents and commuters were recommended to work from home or find alternative forms of transportation to get to work.
Earlier this week, the rideshare app, Uber, sent out a message to residents of New Jersey who use the app.
"Due to the potential NJ Transit strike which could be effective as early as Friday, we are expecting significantly higher demand for Uber rides across New Jersey, especially during large-scale events," Uber explained. "We are doing everything we can to make sure rides are available during this time, but your Uber experience may be impacted."
Frustrated residents and commuters, who believe the rideshare app is taking advantage of the situation with price-gauging, have taken their complaints to X.
"I get it you guys had to strike I get it, but damn why couldn't you wait till tomorrow to shut it down????," user rwildcard151 wrote on X. "Damn Uber is 60 to go 10 miles it's crazy."
The effects of the strike is not only being felt in New Jersey.
@Uber gouging customers in Manhattan presumably because of NJ rail strike. $158 to go to JFK. @Uber, you suck. I hailed a cab.
On May 22, Beyoncé is set to play MetLife Stadium; however, concerns are rising as to how fans will get to the show.
One fan is taking it into their own hands and selling their ticket so they do not risk losing money on the show due to the lack of accessible transportation from Philadelphia.
hey beehive, unfortunately due to NJ TRANSIT being on strike & me just NOT being able to get to Metlife Stadium from Philly, I will be selling my Beyonce Cowboy Carter Tour SOLO (1) nosebleed for 5/22!! brought it face value for $90 and selling it for only $50! Just want it gone. pic.twitter.com/WratOi7xs0
At the time of writing this there is no clear sign as to when the strike will be over, but until then frustration from NJ Transit commuters will continue to rise.
