TriMet and the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 757 leadership have reached a tentative agreement on a proposed new Working and Wage Agreement. The new contract includes compromises and improvements that benefit TriMet’s union employees, the agency and TriMet riders. If ratified by TriMet union members and approved by the TriMet Board of Directors, the new, four-year contract will take effect on Dec. 1, 2024, though an increase in the agency contribution to union employees’ 401a plan would go into effect after board approval.
“This tentative contract agreement underscores our unwavering commitment to attract and retain people who want to work for TriMet, support their families, better themselves and make a meaningful contribution to our region’s economic vitality,” said TriMet General Manager Sam Desue Jr. “I appreciate the bargaining team, which conducted negotiations in record time and with a collaborative approach focused on improving working conditions for our union staff while improving TriMet’s ability to provide the service our riders need.”
“This truly is a landmark agreement proposal that will greatly benefit ATU 757 members in a variety of ways, including personally and financially,” said ATU 757 President Shirley Block. “As my tenure with TriMet and leading the ATU Local 757 comes to a close, I know this contract leaves my union brethren in a much better situation and sets them up for a prosperous future.”
TriMet says it must continue to improve staffing and retention levels, especially among operators, maintenance and other union staff. The agency has plans for increasing service, expanding safety and security and enhancing cleanliness for a better customer experience.
Union members will vote on the tentative agreement on June 29. If they ratify the new contract, it must then go to the TriMet Board of Directors for approval.
