TWU and SEPTA finalize two-year contract agreement, preventing potential strike.

The Transport Workers Union Local 234 (TWU) and the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) have reached a tentative agreement for a new two-year contract, ending a period of tense negotiations that had raised the specter of a strike. This breakthrough was facilitated by intervention from Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who played a pivotal role in bringing both parties to the negotiating table.

The executive board of TWU Local 234 has approved the proposed agreement, which is now subject to ratification by the broader membership. The SEPTA board of directors is scheduled to review the contract on December 18. The swift conclusion to the negotiations marks a significant shift in circumstances, as discussions appeared bleak at the end of last week, with officials warning of potential work stoppages.

TWU Local 234 President Will Vera expressed concern earlier in the week regarding the pace of negotiations, indicating that frustration had grown among union members. Previously, he had signaled an intention to mobilize members for a potential walkout over what was perceived as SEPTA’s unyielding stance on key demands, including pension increases and healthcare cost-sharing arrangements.

The breakthrough came late Sunday, when staff from the governor’s office met with union leaders and SEPTA representatives in Philadelphia. According to both sides, Shapiro’s involvement was crucial in fostering a productive dialogue that led to the agreement. Participants noted that the governor’s team successfully eliminated the previous delays and facilitated commitments from both parties.

Under the terms of the tentative contract, union members are set to receive a salary increase of 3.5% in each year of the agreement. Additionally, enhancements to pension benefits and modifications to work rules, as well as an increase in night-differential pay, are also included in the deal.

The negotiations highlighted significant points of contention, particularly regarding pension contributions and healthcare costs, which had been major sticking points for the union. TWU Local 234 represents approximately 5,000 individuals including bus and subway operators, mechanics, cashiers, maintenance personnel, and custodians, making it the largest bargaining unit within SEPTA. The previous contract expired on November 7, underscoring the urgency for a resolution.

A potential work stoppage would have severely disrupted a transit system that accommodates an average of 790,000 riders on weekdays, highlighting the critical role that TWU members play in maintaining public transportation services in the region. This developing situation will continue to be monitored as updates become available. Media News Source.