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Minneapolis’ Metro Transit recently announced Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1005 members ratified a three-year agreement. The union represents 2,200 Metro Transit train and bus operators and mechanics.

Extending through July 31, 2008, the agreement includes an immediate 1 percent pay increase, a 1.5 percent pay hike in February 2007 and a 2.25 percent wage increase in February 2008. In addition, each union member will receive a $475 lump sum payment.

The Metropolitan Council — which oversees Metro Transit — will continue to pay health care premiums for ATU members with single coverage; members with family coverage will pay a portion of the monthly premium.

The new contract also covers work rules for ATU members that serve in the agency’s rail division. Previously, many of the rules were outlined in a separate implementation agreement signed before the June 2004 opening of the Hiawatha light-rail line.