BLET agreements now center on two separate labor developments: a ratified three-year contract at Delaware & Hudson Railway and a proposed Metra deal that still needs a union vote. One agreement is final, while the other depends on member approval.

BLET agreements advance rail labor talks
BLET agreements advance rail labor talks

BLET agreements set D&H wage terms

The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers & Trainmen said its members approved the new contract with Delaware & Hudson Railway, a subsidiary of CPKC. The deal covers the period from August 1, 2024, through July 31, 2027, and leaves existing work rules and health and welfare benefits in place.

The approved contract provides general wage increases of 4.5% for 2024, 4.0% for 2025 and 3.75% for 2026. BLET General Chairman Ben Martin said, “These increases provided compounded wage growth over the life of the agreement while maintaining the integrity of existing agreements and practices.”

Metra engineers receive tentative six-year proposal

At the same time, union representatives have reached a tentative six-year agreement with the Northeast Illinois Regional Commuter Railroad Corp. The proposal applies to about 250 locomotive engineers working for Metra, with members expected to vote on it by June 19.

If ratified, the Metra locomotive engineers agreement would revise compensation structures, work rules, seniority protections, assignment procedures, benefits, discipline standards and operational practices. It remains separate from the D&H contract, but together the two developments keep BLET labor negotiations in focus.