John Samuelsen, an ambitious TWU vice president who represents track workers, e-mails over a tidbit about a small but important victory — especially with today’s oppressive heat.
“After years of battling management over air conditioners in track crew quarters, they have caved in. We have gotten 14 or 15 units installed since May, with more on the way. The response from management has been encouraging," he wrote.
Track workers have got in tough in the summer.
One worker, Kevin Malusson, who works the “holes” aka tunnels near W. 4th St, estimates tunnel temperatures can exceed 130 degrees. On top of that, it is a constant struggle to get water delivered to the workers, he said. It’s BYOB when it comes to water.
“You’ll be standing still, and sweat will be pouring out of your pores, it is ridiculously hot,” he said. “The only luxury is a breeze from a passing train," he said.
Photo by sgoralnick via Flickr
-- Chuck Bennett amNY.com
