ATDA reaches 5-year Agreement with Keolis to raise wages by 32%
April 02 2025
March 28, 2025 – The American Train Dispatchers Association (ATDA) has reached a tentative collective bargaining agreement with Keolis that will raise member wages, increase paid time off, and provide more flexibility when using leave time entitlements. The Agreement’s wage increases include five percent per year, for each year of the agreement (retroactive to July 1, 2023), then an additional two dollar per hour increase to be applied after the final five percent raise takes effect (on June 15, 2027). Altogether, the cumulative increase will raise ATDA member pay on the property by a compounded 32.15 percent.
The Agreement also provides members with three additional paid sick days, each of which are to be considered excused absences when used. Additionally, covered members will now be allowed to use up to two weeks of their current vacation time in daily increments. Other leave time enhancements included within the agreement improve bereavement leave and the leave of absence process.
Commenting on the tentative Agreement, ATDA Vice President Barry Cross said, “I would like to thank General Chairperson Sarah Gouthro and former General Chairman Ed Kadlick for their unwavering resolve throughout the bargaining process. This agreement took time, but the results reflect their determination.”
MBCR General Chairperson Sarah Gouthro, said “This agreement is the first step of many to achieving more favorable wages and benefits for our members. Over two years were spent at the bargaining table, and I'd like to thank the membership for their trust, feedback, and support throughout the process, as well as VP Barry Cross for continually being there to offer education and guidance, especially towards the end. I also want to thank former General Chairman Ed Kadlick for leading the charge and laying the groundwork for us to come out with not only a beneficial agreement for the membership in this round, but for also setting up the team to continue to achieve results as we adjust our focus towards other items that are important to our members."
The new Agreement will now be submitted to ATDA members on the Keolis property for a ratification vote.