Santa Clara VTA and ATU Finalize Four-Year Labor Contract

Santa Clara VTA and ATU Local 265 members approved a new contract that includes wage increases and benefits after months of tense negotiations and a temporary strike. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Contract Includes Pay Raises and Benefits

The agreement outlines wage increases of 4%, 3.5%, 3%, and 4% across four years. It also adds better dental coverage and enhanced workplace policies to support employees more effectively.

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With this contract in place, all of VTA’s labor unions now operate under active collective bargaining agreements. ATU Local 265 represents 1,500 employees, including operators, mechanics, and customer service staff.

New Contract Ends Months of Union Disputes

The union’s previous strike lasted 17 days before a judge ruled it violated the existing labor deal. That decision brought both parties back to the table to reach this new agreement.

VTA CEO Carolyn Gonot stated that the contract balances long-term labor costs with fair employee compensation. She emphasized the value of stability in delivering reliable public transit.

The bargaining process began in August 2024 and sparked intense discussions. But both the union and management found common ground to move forward with mutual respect.

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