A labor dispute between the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) and workers at Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 265 could affect public transit in Santa Clara County starting next week. The Mercury News reported yesterday that both parties are still working to reach an agreement. This as the current labor contract expired on Monday at midnight.
A full labor strike will stop all bus and light rail service in Santa Clara County. It’s also confirmed via VTA Customer Service that ACCESS Paratransit service will still run normally in the event of a strike.
At press time, all bus and light rail service is running as normal in Santa Clara County. Worth noting: it’s possible that some drivers may not show up for work this week, causing some cancelled bus and light rail runs. Call VTA at (408)321-2300 to ensure your bus and light rail trip is running.
A further update on labor negotiations is expected to be reported at this Thursday’s VTA Board of Directors’ meeting.
DATE & TIME: Thursday, March 6 at 5:30pm
PLACE: County Supervisors’ Chambers, 70 W. Hedding St., San Jose
GETTING THERE: The County Supervisors’ Chambers is a short walk from Civic Center light rail station. The Blue and Green light rail lines, and the 61 bus line, stop at that station.
KRON 4 News reported on Tuesday that ATU Local 265 members will meet this Friday to discuss next steps, in the event no labor agreement is reached.
This site will be updated as circumstances and facts warrant. Have a good day, and stay safe.
Eugene Bradley
Founder, Silicon Valley Transit Users