STRIKE AVERTED: Septa, union reach tentative contract agreement

SEPTA this morning announced that a tentative agreement has been reached with TWU Local 234 on a new contract for employees in the City, Suburban and Frontier Transit Divisions. This tentative contract will allow for service to continue without disruption, including on city subways, buses and trolleys. 

The agreement is for two years, and provides for wage increases, a one-time pandemic payment, paid parental leave and other benefits, and adds Juneteenth as a paid holiday. The agreement will be finalized pending ratification by TWU Local 234 members and approval by the SEPTA Board. 

Among the top issues for Local 234 was wage increases and enhanced safety protections for workers and riders. Negotiations were focused on finding a way to recognize employees’ work, particularly with the challenges of COVID-19. 

“SEPTA’s frontline employees were critical to keeping our region moving during the worst of the  pandemic, and this agreement reflects their dedication and sacrifice,” said SEPTA CEO and General  Manager Leslie S. Richards in a statement. “I would like to thank the negotiating teams on both sides of the table for  working in good faith to reach an agreement amid what are truly unprecedented challenges.” 

With the tentative contract in place, SEPTA riders are assured that there will not be a work stoppage at the start of the Monday morning commute. All services will operate on regular schedules.