Transit users in Phoenix and surrounding cities are intently watching contract talks between bus operator Veolia Transportation Services and officials at Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1433, as a bus strike looms in the Valley of the Sun. According to the Arizona Republic, residents in nearby Tempe are being warned that a work stoppage could occur as early as Wednesday.
Service in Phoenix, Tempe and surrounding cities could be drastically affected by a strike, with an estimated 40 percent of service being dropped. That number would equate to normal Sunday bus service. Phoenix bus drivers voted to strike in August. Union officials claim they are now waiting on Veolia to restart negotiations.
As reported in the Republic, Tempe has a $124.5 million contract with Veolia to operate 21 of its 30 routes; Veolia operates about 30 routes in Phoenix. The company also has contracts with surrounding cities, such as Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler Ahwatukee Foothills and Glendale. Local 1433 represent more than 1,500 drivers Valley-wide.
For more, visit www.azcentral.com.