NORFOLK, Va. – Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) and the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1177, which represents operators and mechanics, recently reached an agreement on a new three-year contract that provides higher base pay and increased benefits.
Effective July 1, 2024, hourly base-pay for top operators and maintenance personnel increased by 19.4 percent – the largest pay increase ever negotiated. In addition, the progression for reaching top pay for bus and light-rail operators was shortened from five years to four years and two months, and the starting base hourly rate was increased by over 27 percent.
Under the new contract, bus operators now earn $29 per hour and rail operators earn $30.60 per hour. Top mechanics earn between $28.42 and $33.35 per hour.
“Our operators and mechanics are at the heart of what we do. With their steadfast focus on safety and professionalism, they ensure we serve our communities reliably and efficiently,” said William E. Harrell, President and CEO. “I salute union leaders, in partnership with HRT staff, for reaching an agreement that benefits both our customers and valued employees. During the negotiations, we listened to union concerns and, working together, produced a competitive contract that rewards operators and mechanics for the important work they do.”
The new contract also includes an increase in the amount of sick leave accumulated each month and additional days off. That’s on top of paid training and the benefits all HRT employees enjoy, including health, dental and vision insurance, employee assistance program, retirement savings and more.
“At a time when many transit agencies struggle to reach labor contracts, we were able to produce an agreement within several weeks – a remarkable achievement,” Harrell said. “We believe that the improved wages and benefits will enable the agency to hire and retain quality employees to serve our customers while demonstrating our unwavering commitment to making HRT a preferred place to work.”
About HRT
HRT’s mission is to connect Hampton Roads with transportation solutions that are reliable, safe, efficient and sustainable. For more information on transit services, visit gohrt.com.
Media contact:
Thomas Becher, APR
Manager, Communications
August 28, 2024
Cell: (757) 354-0564
(757) 222-6010