The Regional Transportation District–Denver's (RTD) board has agreed to a three-year collective bargaining agreement with the agency’s union employees that would raise wages more than 25% over the course of the contract.
Union employees will receive a 16% or higher pay increase during the first year, with 4% pay increases in the two subsequent years. That will bring bus and rail operator starting hourly wages to $24 from $20.58, with the first opportunity to increase in six months instead of one year, RTD officials said in a press release.
Employees would continue receiving raises every six months and reach the top rate after four and a half years.
The contract was made retroactive to Jan. 1, 2022, and will extend to Dec. 31, 2024. Current employees will receive new wage rates by May, retroactive to Jan. 1. Other entry-level wages include $35.65 for a signal/traction power maintainer and $33.77 for an electro mechanic in light-rail maintenance, and $29.68 for a track maintainer in commuter=rail maintenance. Two-thirds of RTD employees are represented by Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1001 (ATU).
“Under General Manager Debra Johnson’s guidance, the district demonstrated a commitment to its union employees and their well-being that is sure to contribute to our mutual goal of the success of the agency,” said ATU Local 1001 President and Business Agent Lance Longenbohn.
Other benefits of the contract include upgraded retirement, a modified workweek, vacation flexibility, better restroom access for operators and the creation of a workforce development committee for apprenticeships.