BLET ratifies new contract with M&NA, reaches tentative pact with SEPTA

Members of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen last week ratified a new contract with the Missouri & Northern Arkansas Railroad.

The agreement runs through 2023 and provides for improved wages and benefits for about 70 operating employees working for the short line, BLET officials said in a press release.

Members will receive a signing bonus, as well as a "significant" wage increase upfront through the life of the contract, they said.

Negotiations between BLET and the short line lasted three years.

Meanwhile, BLET announced it has reached a tentative agreement with Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) on a contract for more than 200 locomotive engineers.

Ballots were mailed to active members working for SEPTA last week and are due July 16. The agreement covers rates of pay and benefits.