As VTA Strike Ends Its First Week, Commuters Grapple with New Routes, Higher Costs
As the work week came to a rainy close, Bay Area commuters contended with more than just bad weather—the ongoing strike by Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) workers was also disrupting daily routines. Now at the end of its first week, the strike is affecting roughly 100,000 daily riders, leading to increased travel expenses, lengthier journeys, and missed appointments. Despite the challenges, there is palpable support for the strikers, coupled with the earnest wish that a resolution is swiftly reached.
The strike began when negotiations between the VTA and Amalgamated Transit Union Local 265 hit a deadlock. The union demands increased pay to match the cost of living, as well as new contract terms ensuring arbitration for labor disputes. Despite a recent mediation session focused on pay and arbitration, a resolution remains elusive. Meanwhile, VTA has pursued legal action alleging a breach of a previous “no strike” agreement, although the union maintains the claim is invalid since the contract has expired.
Amidst this backdrop, the Diridon Station in San Jose bustled with rideshares coming and going, a stark contrast to the vacant bus depot nearby. Some commuters opted for bicycles or scooters, while braving the rainy conditions to reach their destinations on foot.
To adapt, regular transit riders have had to improvise. For instance, Brian Petersen of San Francisco typically cycles from the train to work. With the rain and the strike complicating his commute, he resorted to ride-hailing services, incurring costs of $15 to $20 per trip.
Similarly, Don H. from Mountain View has revised his travel habits entirely. Switching from his usual bus routes to walking and using CalTrain, he also had to rethink other routines, such as his grocery shopping and prescription pick-ups, since those locations are less accessible. “It’s been a challenge,” he admitted, emphasizing the time lost and the inconvenience of falling out of sync with his routines.
For Rakhee Thak, the strike added 10 to 15 minutes to her daily commute to San Jose, necessitating the use of Uber from the Diridon Station. Circumstances left her with few alternatives but to incur the extra cost and time.
Students at San Jose State University, like Shreyas, faced their own hurdles. The strike led to missed classes as unpredictable travel became the norm. Though the university provided free access to a bike rental service, inclement weather rendered this mode of transport less viable. “Commuting has been stressful,” Shreyas reflected, outlining the need to either walk or face the uncertainty of bike availability.
For others, like Claudia Goodsell commuting from Morgan Hill for work, the strike significantly impacted travel flexibility. Limited train schedules forced her to coordinate her travel based on when she could catch CalTrain, and when working late, pricey rideshare services became the only option. “I’ve needed to plan more than I expected,” she stated, further commenting on the financial toll that unplanned transport expenses have taken.
Despite the difficulties, several commuters voiced their understanding and support for the strikers. Goodsell expressed empathy for the workers’ plight and recognized the timing of their action, especially with local tech events like Nvidia bringing attention to the area. Likewise, Don acknowledged the complexity of the situation, noting that while he empathizes with the union’s demands for fair pay, he hopes for a swift solution.
In this environment of uncertainty and inconvenience, the future remains unpredictable for those who rely on the VTA. As both sides work towards reaching an agreement, commuters continue to adapt, ever hopeful for resolution and a return to normalcy.
