FAIRFAX, Va. — After nearly two weeks, Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 689 employees could end their strike soon. ATU Local 689 represents Fairfax Connector drivers and mechanics.
The strike began at 9 a.m. on Thursday, February 22, when bus workers walked off the job for claims of unfair labor practices. Employees are asking for higher pay, more sick leave, and a retirement plan.
Fairfax Connector’s operations contractor, Transdev, has been negotiating a new labor agreement with ATU Local 689. After four in-person meetings, ATU Local 689 and Transdev reached a tentative agreement Tuesday evening, a bargaining session that lasted all day.
Despite some setbacks, Local 689 was able to win transformative improvements to the contract, including guaranteed retirement security for members. They will also receive competitive wages for bus operators and mechanics, and enhance the 40-hour guarantee.
The union will bring the tentative agreement to Fairfax Connector members on Wednesday for a ratification vote. If the contract is ratified services will return as soon as Thursday.
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