Santa Clara VTA seeks Newsome's help to end ATU strike

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) officials have asked California Gov. Gavin Newsome for an intervention and fact-finding investigation to end a strike by Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 265 members while contract negotiations continue. 

On March 10, more than two-thirds of VTA employees walked off the job due to a contract dispute between the union and transit agency. The workers’ previous contract with the VTA expired March 3. The ATU Local 265 represents 1,500 VTA bus and light-rail operators, mechanics, fare inspectors, dispatchers and customer service representatives. 

The strike has brought public transit to a halt throughout Santa Clara County and is negatively impacting 100,000 riders each day, VTA officials said in a press release. Negotiations have continued between the parties to try to end the conflict.   

The VTA has proposed a wage increase of 9.3% over the next three years, a $1,500 one-time payment for union members, other comprehensive benefits and a more robust pension plan. The package would ensure VTA operators remain among the highest paid in the San Francisco Bay area and nation, authority officials said in a press release. 

VTA officials are awaiting the governor’s response. They also has filed for injunctive relief with the Santa Clara County Superior Court to help end the strike.