Madison Metro Transit Workers Celebrate Historic Contract Victory After Lengthy Negotiations

Historic Contract Ratified by Madison Metro Transit Workers

After nearly a year of negotiations, Madison Metro Transit employees, represented by Teamsters Local 120, have unanimously approved a new collective bargaining agreement, heralded as the best contract in decades. This significant development took place on September 17, 2025, after a decisive vote by the union members.

The agreement not only solidifies the existing benefits and protections that transit workers have fought hard for over the years but also introduces new provisions aimed at improving their safety and overall working conditions. “Teamsters at Madison Metro Transit are the backbone of this city’s transportation,” said Tom Erickson, President of Local 120. He emphasized that the priority was to ensure that workers could maintain their hard-fought rights while also securing enhanced safety measures within the contract.

The newly ratified contract spans three years and includes a series of improvements. These enhancements encompass annual wage increases, additional vacation days, and significantly improved language designed to protect all workers from potential assaults. Matt Sarenich, a veteran transit operator and chief steward at Local 120, expressed his pride in the contract negotiation process, stating, “This was a huge win and it’s why my fellow Local 120 Teamsters brothers and sisters approved it by nearly 95 percent.”

The extensive negotiations reflect the dedication of Madison's transit workers who operate as bus drivers, technicians, and administrative personnel, providing vital public transportation services in Wisconsin’s capital. The agreement has received approval from the Madison City Council, marking a key step forward in ensuring the workers represent the city’s commitment to transit safety and worker rights.

Teamsters Local 120, which proudly advocates for nearly 15,000 workers across multiple states, has long been a champion for worker benefits and rights. The contract's focus on safety, job protections, and benefits underscores its importance not just to the transit workers but to the citizens who rely on their services every day.

The ratification process emphasizes the strength and unity of the Teamsters union—a collective voice standing up for fair labor practices in the face of adversity and ongoing negotiations. The transit workers’ significant achievement can inspire other union efforts and negotiations across various sectors, demonstrating how solidarity and persistence in the labor movement can lead to meaningful improvements.

In conclusion, the Madison Metro Transit workers’ decision to ratify this contract reflects a vital step towards enhancing their work environment, ensuring the safety of workers, and affirming the rights of union members in collective bargaining initiatives. As they move forward under this new agreement, they can be assured of a supportive workplace aimed at fostering safety and welfare, paving the way for a better future for all transit employees involved.