SEPTA strike could upend Philadelphia commutes
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SEPTA workers are preparing to strike just after midnight should a contract deal not be reached.
Why it matters: If employees walk off the job, public transit could grind to a halt indefinitely, causing headaches for Philadelphians who rely on SEPTA.
Driving the news: As the deadline nears, negotiations are intensifying between transit officials and Transport Workers Union Local 234, which represents more than 5,000 members, per the Inquirer.
- The union voted last week to authorize a strike, paving the way for a work stoppage when the contract expires at 12:01am Friday.
The big picture: The agency faces a $240 million deficit, potential service cuts and a fare increase.
- Transit officials have pointed to the agency's dire financial situation as their basis for maintaining a one-year offer that keeps wages flat.
- It would provide employees with a $1,000 signing bonus in exchange for concessions on health care coverage costs, per the Inquirer.
Yes, but: The union has rejected the offer, calling for wage increases and better protections for workers after a rash of assaults.
- SEPTA pledged last year to provide bus and trolley drivers with extra safety measures, such as bulletproof vests, but the union says the agency hasn't yet delivered, the Inquirer reported.
What to expect: A strike would halt bus, trolley and subway service within the city, per SEPTA.
- Regional Rail would operate as normal, as would suburban transit services like the Norristown High Speed Line. Check this list to see whether your route would be affected.
What they're saying: Workers don't believe SEPTA's "strapped," union president Brian Pollitt told the Inquirer. He said the agency has a $500 million reserve fund that could help it avoid service cuts.
- SEPTA says the reserve fund is for emergencies.
What's ahead: The agency is considering a steep fare hike that could go into effect next year.