CTA Train Operators Announce Plans to Strike

CHICAGO - Although logistics remained scant Monday afternoon, the union representing Chicago Transit Authority train operators announced that its members will likely be striking.

Amalgamated Transit Union Local 308 members "overwhelmingly" favored the option to strike in a preliminary vote, according to an ABC7 report, which noted that a timeline had not been divulged. The move comes about 18 months after the expiration of CTA train operators' most recent contract.

"The CTA says service will not be affected," ABC7 reported. "The union representing the workers said the transit authority's proposals for a new contract don't include pay raises and cut two vacation days. The CTA said those claims are not true and the union workers here in Chicago are the second-highest paid in the nation."

Representing more than 3,600 multi-classifications, Local 308 is one of the largest rail labor organizations in the ATU.

Top photo | Four Cars at Oakton Curve | Jonathan Lee (CC)