SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - CRRC Massachusetts has notified its workforce of an impending furlough on March 16 of 161 workers.

The two-month furlough is due to the continued detainment of railcar shells held at port related to a detention notice by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

CRRC has said they are working to get those parts released, resuming business operations, and allowing furloughed workers to get recalled.

Philip Eng, MBTA General Manager and the state’s interim Transportation Secretary, added in a statement:

“Since the very first day the CRRC shipment has been held, they have demonstrated their commitment to appropriately responding to CBP’s requests to allow the delivery and production of the cars to continue. CRRC has submitted all requested documentation and awaits CBP review. We all want to avoid or minimize any potential impacts on the plant’s labor force, which has been producing high-performing subway cars. In addition to CRRC’s efforts, the MBTA has been doing what it can to support and remains in communication with CBP. In addition to thoroughly documenting the sources of raw materials in the shells being delivered, in cases where detailed documentation of compliance with UFLPA is more difficult to obtain, CRRC MA has been working hard to identify alternative providers for parts and components that have the necessary information available.

I recently had the opportunity to speak with labor and the workforce at the Springfield plant to share with these highly skilled employees who build our cars all that is being done to address this matter and how important they are to us, CRRC, and the Springfield community. We recognize the impact the uncertainty has on the workforce, and we are deeply appreciative of their dedication.

By staying laser-focused on answering CBP’s outstanding questions, we remain confident that car shipments will be allowed to resume."

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