It seems like the rumors were true, that there was a possible strike in the air. However, the ATU and the GRTC have come back to the table and a Federal mediator has gotten involved.
The GRTC Press Release can be read here:
http://www.ridegrtc.com/documents/2010_1_21%20GRTC%20Union%20Contract%20Update.pdf (http://www.ridegrtc.com/documents/2010_1_21%20GRTC%20Union%20Contract%20Update.pdf)
And here's a couple things to note:
1. Virginia is a Right To Work state (oh oh.....).
2. The last GRTC strike occured in 1976. It lasted 48 days.
3. Out of 492 of GRTC's employees, 426 are currently under contract. 290 employees are ATU members.
4. This is basically over saleries. The ATU wants pay raises for the drivers and mechanics; GRTC says it's trying to avoid lay-offs.
Personal conjecture:
The recent arrival of the new 900-series Gillig LFs were just dripping with strike all over it. However, I hope like hell there won't be a strike. You DC folks think traffic is bad up THERE?!?!?!
WOW!!!!!! that interesting.....Let's remember no one really win in a strike,(been there done that} I truly hope the issues can be resolved.
UPDATE:
The ATU has agreed not to strike due to concerns of passengers in the current economy. However, the GRTC and the ATU still haven't reached any type of deal for the time being, despite the GRTC CEO trying to wave that around as good news.
Article from:
http://www.wtvr.com/news/wtvr-grtc-vote-20100502,0,5937026.story