SEPTA union workers in suburban SMART Local 1594 vote to authorize strike

UPPER DARBY, Pa. (WPVI) — Suburban SEPTA bus, trolley and train operators voted overwhelmingly on Friday to authorize a strike.

SMART Local 1594 represents more than 350 drivers serving Montgomery, Delaware and Chester counties.

“Operators have spoken out and said they are tired of being attacked. They just want to get home the same way they come to work,” said Anthony Petty, the general president of SMART Local 1594.

Just like union workers in Philadelphia do TWU Local 234 is currently in discussions with SEPTA for a new contract, their main concern is safety and security.

“We come here to work and we come here to work for the public. We don’t come here because people put their hands on us or spit or whatever they do,” Petty said.

SEPTA said they have made progress with TWU Local 234 and are optimistic they will do the same with SMART Local 1594.

Riders we spoke with at 69th Street Station in Upper Darby expressed their support for the drivers.

“They keep this city running,” said Justin Ascareggi of South Philadelphia.

Chairman Anthony Petty says his members also need a raise. He says he’s seen top brass earn more and more, but his members haven’t seen the same.

In response, a statement from SEPTA read in part: “We have implemented a number of cost-saving measures for executives and managers over the past six months, such as limiting non-essential travel and freezing new hires. We expect to save $16. million this year as a result of these steps, and we are looking at additional ways to save.”

Negotiations are expected to continue next week.