Forestville, MD – Today, Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 689 MetroAccess workers, who had been on strike for the last nine days, voted 91% to approve a new collective bargaining agreement reached last night with private contractor Transdev.
The Local’s fight culminated in a massive rally and open bargaining session on day nine, where they were joined by ATU International President John Costa, elected officials, and allies on the picket line. The more than 200 paratransit drivers, utility, dispatchers, maintenance workers, and road supervisors walked off the job on August 1st after months of intense negotiations.
“Our members overwhelmingly voted for a contract they can be proud of,” said Local 689 President Raymond Jackson. “Because they went out on strike and stood together, they now have a contract that sets the standard in this region. We were out there for nine days to drive home a point that we will not be disrespected, that our lives and our livelihoods matter. Now it’s time to get back to work to provide essential services for the people who rely on this important transportation.”
The new three-year contract with Transdev includes substantial wage increases and improved benefits, including better sick leave, a more secure retirement plan, additional holidays, and other improvements.
“Congratulations to our Local 689 MetroAccess members for voting on this contract they fought so hard for,” said International President John Costa. “They shouldn’t have had to go out on strike in the first place, Transdev should have given these workers a fair deal months ago. Instead, they were forced to go out on strike in the brutal heat, some with children. Thankfully our members are strong and handled this strike like the heroes that they are. This is a big win for dignity and respect on the job for our MetroAccess workers and all workers.”