Massive bus operators strike in Fairfax: 630 people are protesting 17 hours daily

Service for Fairfax Connector buses has been halted due to a strike by ATU Local 689 workers.

Service for Fairfax Connector was halted at 9 a.m. as a result of a strike by bus drivers and mechanics represented by the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689.

Fairfax County government said in a statement it was not involved in any labor negotiations between Transdev and the union. "We encourage our users to please use alternative methods of travel. We apologize for any inconvenience," the county government shared.

According to ABC News, the strike is anticipated to impact a significant number of riders on these bus routes, particularly as union members hold a protest for approximately 17 hours daily.

Approximately 630 members of ATU Local 689, including bus operators, mechanics, and utility staff, initiated a strike at the Fairfax Connector's three facilities located in Herndon, Lorton, and Fairfax.

ATU Local 689 has reported that its workers have been operating without a current contract since it expired in December 2023. Negotiations for a new contract with Transdev commenced in October 2023. The union's demands include enhanced retirement benefits, additional sick leave, competitive salaries for bus operators and mechanics comparable to those at regional transit firms, and equitable labor-management practices. Although Transdev's most recent contract offer proposed salary raises that were favorable to the union, it failed to meet the union's broader concerns.

ATU Local 689 asserts that the strike was inevitable "because of Transdev’s unfair labor practices and regressive bargaining, as well as Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chair Jeff McKay’s refusal to weigh in." Despite the strike, the union emphasizes its dedication to securing a preliminary deal and expresses a willingness to persist in negotiations with Transdev during the strike period.

Source: Patch, ABC News