Fairfax Connector workers reach tentative deal to end strike with Transdev
The union representing Fairfax Connector workers, Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689, says it has reached a tentative agreement with Transdev, the company that operates the bus system for the county.
Fairfax Connector bus service will remain suspended through Wednesday, March 6, the county announced. The operating status for Thursday will be updated as information becomes available.
ATU 689 has been on strike since Feb. 22, charging Transdev with unfair labor practices.
The union announced the tentative deal on March 5 after an all-day bargaining session for a new contract. This was the fourth time the union met with company officials in person since the strike began. The union’s contract expired in December.
ATU 689 says it was able to win “major transformative improvements to the contract that would guarantee retirement security for members, include competitive wages for bus operators and mechanics, and enhance the 40-hour guarantee.”
The union expects to bring the tentative agreement to Fairfax Connector members for a ratification vote on March 6 and is optimistic that it will be approved.
Last week, both sides met with a federal mediator at the request of Fairfax County officials. Shortly before the negotiations were set to start on Feb. 29, Transdev told the union it was cutting off health benefits for striking workers.
Fairfax Connector service has been suspended for nearly two weeks during the strike. The bus system typically serves about 26,000 passengers a day on 93 routes.
To mitigate the hardship on residents who rely on Connector buses, Fairfax County has provided a supplemental one-time credit for people who participate in the county’s Transit Ridership Incentive Program. TRIP participants can use the credit for alternative transportation during the strike.
The county also provided a free 45-minute bike ride from Capital Bikeshare. Access the free ride with promo code TRYCABIFFXMAR24 in the Bikeshare app. The Capital Bikeshare stations closest to the Annandale/Mason District area at the Eden Center in Seven Corners and Arlington Boulevard at Allen Street in Falls Church.