Madison Reporter

The City of Madison has reached a new collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 120, the union representing Metro Transit operators and mechanics. The agreement follows negotiations aimed at addressing compensation and working conditions for employees who provide essential public transportation services.

“Metro Transit provides a vital public service that our community depends on. This would not be possible without the dedicated people who keep the buses running. The City of Madison values our union partners, and this agreement demonstrates that by working together, we can do right by our employees and our residents,” said Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway. “I want to acknowledge that the historic upgrades to our transit network — including finally bringing Bus Rapid Transit to Madison after decades of planning — required a big lift from Metro employees. We are all benefiting from their hard work and I truly appreciate their service to Madison and our neighboring communities.”

City officials expressed appreciation for the collaboration with Teamsters Local 120 in reaching common goals, offering solutions, and finding compromises during the negotiation process. They noted confidence that the deal will ensure fair wages and protections for represented employees, as well as continued delivery of essential transit services. According to city representatives, an overwhelming majority of union members ratified the contract.

Key elements of the new contract include annual pay increases of three percent for Metro Transit workers, which aims to align their salaries with other city employees while also providing a one-time bonus intended to offset inflation impacts. The agreement also includes provisions for increased cooperation between city management and union members regarding workplace conditions, faster accrual rates for vacation time, guaranteed access to personal protective equipment, and ongoing efforts focused on employee safety.

In addition to acknowledging contributions from Teamsters representatives and city labor relations staff in finalizing the contract terms, officials extended thanks to all Metro Transit employees whose work enables reliable transportation across Madison each year. The newly negotiated contract is scheduled for introduction at the next Common Council meeting.