N.J. Transit Safety Jobs Vacant as Christie Allies Hired at Top
- Department created with fanfare, then never completely staffed
- Senior-level ranks grew while accidents, violations soared
Commuters are seen boarding a New Jersey Transit train at the Frank R. Lautenberg Rail Station at Secaucus Junction in Secaucus, New Jersey.
Photographer: Victor J. Blue/BloombergAs rail accidents climbed at New Jersey Transit, the cash-strapped agency understaffed its safety office while filling high-level jobs with people tied to Governor Chris Christie’s administration.
As of last month, that office was operating without a deputy chief plus about a dozen other employees to oversee workplace health, protection and training. Meanwhile, federal records show safety in key areas slipped at a railroad that handles 89 million passengers a year.