[UPDATE] As of Friday November 8th, 2024, although the current contract has expired, SEPTA workers did not go on strike. Both sides have are reportedly making “progress” as far as negotiations. However, the decision to strike is not off the table if things being to stall.
The city of Philadelphia is bracing for a possible SEPTA strike that will begin as early as midnight Friday morning. Last week, union workers already authorized a strike if a new contract is not negotiated by the deadline. Here’s how this can impact and disrupt transit for thousands of commuters across the region.
Philly preparing for SEPTA strike
Indeed, a SEPTA strike will disrupt mass transit across the region. Members of Transport Workers Union Local 234 could hit the picket line as soon as Friday if no deal is reached by 11:59 p.m. and last month, they already voted to strike that happens.
SEPTA spokesperson Andrew Busch said that if the union does call a strike, it would shut down all bus, trolley, and subway/EL services within the City of Philadelphia.
“That core part of the network that covers all of Philadelphia would be out of service,” confirmed Busch.
The impact this will have on families and commuters is great.
Specifically, the School District of Philadelphia is making plans on how to deal with the strike if it does in fact take place.
Nearly 55,000 Philadelphia students rely on SEPTA to get back and forth to school. The district released a statement noting that providing transportation for all of the students impacted is not a realistic option.
In a press release regarding the strike, Philadelphia Superintendent Tony B. Watlington said “I respect the right of union members to advocate for themselves. I do hope that this strike can be avoided so that we can continue to operate normally and support the social, emotional and academic needs of our students without disruption.”
In the event that the strike does happen, the Philadelphia school district is prepping for remote learning by those affected.
You can read more about how the school district will handle the strike in its entirety, here.
Why might workers strike?
Important to note, union representatives said they are fighting for more pay and improved safety and security. Violence throughout the city of Philadelphia is ongoing and union workers are concerned.
“Safety and security for my members and the riding public,” said Local 234 President Brian Pollitt. “And we’re looking for economic justice.”
The last time SEPTA went on strike was in 2016. The strike last for six days.
SEPTA has released a list of service information in the event of a strike. You can read it in its entirety here.
While all of the bus, trolly, and subway/EL services will be discounted, the Regional Rail would run into the city as normally. Additionally, the suburban transit services — buses, Routes 101 and 102 trolleys, Norristown High-Speed Line — would operate.