SEPTA Strike Looms, Contingency Plans Put In Place

SEPTA ongoing troubles could be compounded on midnight, October 31, when their workers union will go on strike if a deal is not reached.

The transit authority issued a public statement on the impending deadline on Wednesday, releasing a contingency plan in case talks fail.

The contract between SEPTA and the Transport Workers Union Local 234 will expire on October 31. Major issues for the union include salary, retirement benefits, and too many overnight shifts for drivers.

Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney urged the two sides to continue to negotiate ahead of the deadline.

"“I continue to watch with concern the ongoing negotiations between SEPTA and TWU Local 234 toward a new contract," Kenney said in a statement. "Any work stoppage would have an adverse effect on tens of thousands of commuters who rely on the buses, trolleys and subways to get to and from work and school – many of whom have no other affordable transportation options. I urge both sides to stay at the table and hammer out a resolution to their differences.”

TWU 234 has gone on eight strikes since 1975, including one in 2009.

Union representatives have previously said that they would not halt their strike for Election Day. TWU endorsed Hillary Clinton for President over the summer.

A strike would severely strain SEPTA's already limited resources. The Regional Rail fleet of Silverliner cars that was condemned over the summer has not yet returned to full capacity. SEPTA service remains slow and prone to significant delays. On top of that, computer issues caused a Regional Rail-wide shutdown on Monday night.

"As our daily Regional Rail riders know, service is already operating at near capacity," SEPTA said in a statement. "We ask everyone to be prepared for very crowded trains and travel inconveniences. If at all possible, we would encourage individuals and businesses to consider adjusting their work/business hours, in the event of a service interruption. This may help to make your trip just a little bit more comfortable."

In the case of a strike, only the Regional Rail line will continue operations within the city, SEPTA said. In the suburbs, the Norristown High Speed Line, Suburban Bus, and CCT Connect will operate as well.

Hours will be changed during a strike, and customers at Center City stations will be asked to wait for the train on the concourse level, instead of the platform.

The following services will be completely shut down in case of a strike:

• City Bus Routes (This includes Route 78, Cornwells Heights to Center City Express)
• Market Frankford Line
• Broad Street & Broad Ridge Spur Lines
• Trolley Routes 10, 11, 13, 15, 34, and 36

For further details about SEPTA's contingency plan, see here.

Image courtesy SEPTA.