Union may walk if SEPTA strikes out October 30, 2009

...for now.

At least the Phillies are taking Amtrak.

If history is any indication, there’s probably going to be a transit strike. SEPTA‘s largest union, TWU Local 234, is threatening a walk-out that could leave thousands of commuters stranded.

@SEPTA has released two seemingly unrelated “news” stories on its Web site — “World Series Information” and “Service Interruption Guide.”

The “World Series Information” article lists important details about service to and from the World Series games, including increased local service in addition to Sports Express trains running every 10 minutes. This is fantastic and really shows SEPTA’s commitment to getting you to the games, until you read the next article…

The “Service Interruption Guide,” which makes no reference to the World Series article (and visa versa), suggests the following:

• Take Regional Rail.
• Alter your work schedule to avoid peak-hour trains.
• Redeem your Trans/TrailPass if necessary.

Broad Street does have sidewalks extending from City Hall to Citizens Bank Park. Estimated travel time (walking): 50 minutes.

Just like back in 2005, SEPTA and TWU Local 234 have locked themselves in a hotel (the Old City Holiday Inn) to hash out a new contract, conveniently just in time for Philadelphia to be on the national stage for the World Series. The union has been without a contract since the spring. At the core of the negotiations, similar to 2005: wages, benefits and pensions.

This time, though, both parties have new negotiators at the top. TWU spokesperson Robert Wolper, perhaps mimicking an old, popular SEPTA slogan (knowingly or unknowingly), said in reference to negotiations, “We’re getting there. Slowly.”

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, SEPTA is hesitant to dish more money to the union since ridership is down (it reached a peak last year when gas prices jumped), state/federal funding is questionable and operating costs are rising.

The union has set a deadline for Saturday at 12:01 a.m., but a strike could occur before that, the article said.

A strike would affect most city bus routes (except LUCY and CCT Connect/Paratransit), trolleys and subways. Regional Rail will be operating normally, yet with an expected increase in passengers.

Temple University and the University of Pennsylvania are providing shuttles to students, faculty and staff should the strike happen, similar to their plans in 2005. Both universities also encourage carpooling.

For a thoughtful reminder of the 2005 strike, check out The Temple News’ award winning coverage, to which I was proud to contribute:

• Transit workers walk off the job
• Commuters crowd Broad Street shuttles
• Emergency plans put into action
• Dean briefs TSG on transit options

But the all-important question: Will the popular “SEPTA Race to Citizens Bank Park” air at the World Series?