Phoenix Bus Strike Stopped by Contract Talks Extension

PHOENIX - Negotiations on a new contract between Phoenix's transit operations contractor and two of its labor unions have been extended to Aug. 15.

A possible strike was looming Monday after labor talks reportedly reached an impasse earlier this week.

City officials said Friday that Veolia Transportation Services is in ongoing negotiations with unions representing bus mechanics and service crews. Collective bargaining agreements with each union ended June 30.

The extension doesn't eliminate the possibility of a strike by public transit employees, if Veolia and the unions don't reach a collective agreement by the new deadline.

Veolia operates 33 of the 99 bus routes that could be affected in the event of a strike. Veolia operates bus service through a contract with the Phoenix Public Transit Department, which also provides some service into the cities of Glendale, Peoria, and Scottsdale.