Tuesday, June 27, 2023
Today, First Transit and Teamsters Local 542 have agreed on a new contract. Service out of our Copley Park Division including mini bus and MTS Access are anticipated to be restored starting Wednesday, June 28. This includes the following Routes: 14, 18, 25, 83, 84, 833, 838, 944, 945, 946, 964, 965, 985; Saturdays: 832, 833, 838, 945, 965; Sundays: 832, 833, 838.
We anticipate reduced level of service over the next several days as drivers come back to work. We appreciate your continued patience as the system recovers.
For updates on mini bus service, please check the Alerts & Detours page for the status of your trip at sdmts.com/getting-around/alerts-detours or call the Information and Trip Planning Office at 619.233.3004. For updates on MTS Access service please call 1-800-921-9664.
FAQs
Why are the First Transit employees not working?
The Union agreement is between the Teamsters Local 542 and First Transit. Therefore, MTS is not a party to the negotiations and does not have information on details. First Transit is actively negotiating with the Teamsters 542 and remains hopeful to come to an amicable resolution soon with minimal disruption to the riding public. For press or media inquiries related to the agreement or negotiations, contact First Transit/Transdev at Mitun.Seguin@transdev.com or 301-674-3733.
When will the stoppage end?
The work stoppage will continue until further notice. MTS will continue to work with First Transit to provide our passengers with updated information as it becomes available. MTS will have information and updates available on its website – www.sdmts.com.
What is the relationship between First Transit and MTS?
First Transit is MTS’ contracted service provider for Paratransit and a limited number of fixed route services using minibusses. These employees are not directly employed by MTS. The Union agreement covering their employment is between, Teamsters Local 542 and First Transit. MTS does not have any authority or involvement in the negotiations.
What MTS service does this work stoppage impact?
First Transit operates MTS Access service and some MTS fixed-route services. MTS Access is the paratransit operation that provides service for passengers with disabilities who are functionally unable to use the regular MTS fixed-route bus and Trolley system. First Transit is accommodating some of the Access trips using alternative transportation options, such as taxis during this work stoppage.
For the fixed-route minibus services that First Transit operates, MTS will use alternative resources to operate as many routes, and as frequently, as possible. The work stoppage could possibly affect the following routes: 14, 18, 25, 83, 84, 832 (weekends only), 833, 838, 944, 945/945A, 964, 965, 972, 973, 974, 978, 979 and 985. For additional information and alternate routing options, please contact the MTS Information and Trip Planning office at (619) 233-3004. You may also find additional information as updates are available online at www.sdmts.com. Please note that the availability and service for individual routes may vary from day to day, so please check these resources frequently for the most current service impacts each day.
Does the work stoppage impact Trolley service?
No, MTS Trolley service is not impacted.
How much bus service is impacted by the work stoppage?
The vast majority of MTS fixed-route bus service will not be impacted. With approximately 100 routes in the MTS system, 14 routes are impacted. This means 86% of routes will remain on schedule with no interruptions.
If my bus route is impacted, how can I plan a trip?
For additional information and alternate routing options, please contact the MTS Information and Trip Planning office at (619) 233-3004. You may also find additional information as updates are available online at www.sdmts.com.
What are other transportation options available to MTS Access passengers?
The following is a list of providers who may be able to assist with transportation for MTS Access.
Download Alternative MTS Access Transportation Provider List (PDF)
OTHER TRANSPORTATION SERVICES
- Yellow Cab: 619-234-6161
- FACT 888-924-3228
- Jewish Family Services: 858-637-3210
- Transportation Network Companies, such as Uber and Lyft
Will NCTD service be impacted?
NCTD service is not impacted. For a limited time, NCTD+ is providing discounted trips for the first and last miles with a 16-mile defined geographic zone near the Sorrento Valley COASTER Station with Uber, Lyft, or TripShot. For more information please go to: GoNCTD.com/services/nctdplus
How long will the work stoppage last?
Unfortunately, MTS has no way of knowing how long it will last. MTS will continue to work with First Transit to provide customers with updated information on the status of the work stoppage, as well as service schedules.
Will you let us when this is resolved?
Yes, MTS will post information on its website to let customers know the latest information. Customers are encouraged to check this page frequently for updated information.