Union Official Says Philadelphia Mass Transit Strike Is Imminent

Thousands of workers in Philadelphia's mass transit system could go on strike soon unless their union reaches an agreement on a new contract, a union official warned, the Associated Press (AP) reported.

The members of Transport Workers Union Local 234 could go on strike as early as Friday. I Photo: Kryp Wikimedia Commons

Members of Transport Workers Union Local 234 voted last week to authorize a strike once their one-year contract with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) expires at 12:01 a.m. Friday.

The union could strike as early as Friday. Union President Brian Pollitt said he was willing to continue negotiations with SEPTA to avoid a work stoppage but warned he may “have to pull the plug” if significant progress isn’t made.

SEPTA, which has repeatedly expressed concerns about its financial health, said it remains hopeful that a fair agreement can be reached.

The agency has declined to provide specific details on the negotiations. Local 234 represents approximately 5,000 members, including bus, subway, and trolley operators, mechanics, cashiers, maintenance staff, and custodians.