On Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, SEPTA and the Transport Workers Union Local 234 avoided a strike by agreeing to a tentative two‑year contract, NBC10 confirmed.
A Deal Reached After Mediation
Weekend talks, mediated by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, ended with both sides agreeing to a tentative contract. The union had threatened a strike on Friday, Dec. 5, saying it was “imminent” unless a deal was reached. SEPTA Board Chair Kenneth E. Lawrence Jr. said, “I want to thank Governor Shapiro and his team for their efforts to bring both sides together after talks broke down late last week,” adding, “These negotiations are difficult, and I thank everyone involved for their commitment to reaching an agreement while keeping service moving for SEPTA riders.” General Manager Scott A. Sauer echoed the sentiment, saying, “I greatly appreciate the efforts of negotiators on both sides, and we are grateful to Governor Shapiro and his team for their efforts to help us resolve differences and reach a tentative agreement,” and added, “The tentative contract agreement is both fair to our hardworking frontline employees, and fiscally responsible to our fare‑paying riders and the taxpayers who fund SEPTA.”
Key Terms of the Contract
- Wage increases for all members
- Temporary pension enhancement for TWU members who retire during the contract term
- Maintenance of healthcare and other benefits
- New program to improve absence management
- Increased pay differential for night shifts to aid staffing and service improvement
Next Steps Toward Ratification
The tentative agreement now goes to union members for ratification, and then to the SEPTA Board for a vote.
Key Takeaways
- The deal averts a strike that could have begun on Dec. 5.
- The contract includes wage hikes, a pension boost, and higher night‑shift pay.
- The agreement awaits ratification by union members and a board vote.
The agreement marks a significant moment for SEPTA’s riders and employees, ensuring continued service while addressing workers’ concerns.
