Metro Vancouver transit workers and their employer have reached a tentative agreement, according to a joint announcement on June 22, 2026. The deal, which covers approximately 5,000 employees represented by the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Locals 134 and 1720, includes wage increases, improved benefits, and enhanced working conditions.
Details of the Agreement
The tentative contract, which runs for four years, provides wage increases of 3% annually, along with improved health and dental benefits. The employer, Coast Mountain Bus Company (CMBC), also agreed to address scheduling flexibility and safety concerns raised by workers. “This agreement recognizes the hard work and dedication of our members,” said ATU Local 134 president John Smith in a statement.
The deal was reached after months of negotiations, with the previous contract expiring in March 2026. A strike mandate had been approved by union members in May, authorizing job action if no deal was reached.
Impact on Commuters
The agreement ensures that bus and SeaBus services will continue without interruption, averting potential disruptions for the hundreds of thousands of daily riders in Metro Vancouver. The region relies heavily on public transit, with TransLink reporting over 1.5 million boardings per weekday.
“This is a win for transit users and workers alike,” said CMBC spokesperson Lisa Wong. “We are pleased to have reached a fair and balanced agreement.”
The tentative deal now goes to union members for ratification, with voting expected to conclude by early July. If ratified, the contract will take effect immediately.
