Hudson-Bergen Light Rail Workers Win Raises, Reduced Healthcare Costs in New Contract

Workers on New Jersey Transit’s Hudson-Bergen Light Rail represented by the Transport Workers Union voted to ratify a new three-year contract. The new deal includes raises and reductions in healthcare costs that will save workers thousands of dollars.  

Train Operators and Maintenance Workers represented by TWU Local 229 voted by a large majority to ratify the contract that is retroactive to December 1, 2023. TWU Local 229 represents 100 workers who operate and maintain one of the busiest light rail systems in the country.  

“The raises and healthcare cost reductions in the latest contract are crucial for hard-working New Jersey Transit workers,” said TWU Transit, Universities, Utilities, and Services Division Director Willie Brown. “This contract will improve the quality of life for Hudson-Bergen Light Rail workers and their families and also acknowledges our longest-serving workers for their years of service.”  

In addition to raises that amount to 9 percent over three years, the contract includes additional longevity bonuses of 75 cents per hour paid out when a worker reaches 20 and 25 years of service.  

The reduction in healthcare costs shouldered by workers in the latest contract also amounts to an average of $2,461 and the new agreement includes vision coverage for the first time. A Train Operator will see their hourly wage increase to more than $36 per hour under the new agreement. 

“One of the biggest wins for us was lowering the cost of health insurance and having the employer pay a little bit more on their end,” said Local 229 Vice President Duane Boone. “The longevity piece of an extra 75 cents per hour after 20 years and another 75 cents after 25 was also great. There’s a lot of good things for people to look forward to.”  

The TWU reached the agreement with Shimmick, which operates the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail on behalf of New Jersey Transit.