WOODBRIDGE, VA – On Feb. 13, some operators of OmniRide buses organized a work stoppage. Once it was determined that there were insufficient bus operators to run the full complement of OmniRide routes and services for the morning, OmniRide communicated to passengers that there would be no commuter buses to Northern Virginia and Washington D.C., and there would be limited service levels for local bus routes.
Stoppages continue to affect OmniRide commuter services Thursday evening and OmniRide expects it will continue into Friday. Service changes are listed below.
Services were and will continue to be prioritized for local routes, and commuter routes will be reinstated as more operators report for work.
OmniRide is the operating name for the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC). OmniRide’s bus operators are employed by PRTC’s operations contractor Keolis.
The work stoppage has confused PRTC and Keolis management because the PRTC authorized the preliminary budget for FY2024 for transmission to jurisdictions this past Thursday. That preliminary budget included additional monies for Keolis to put on the bargaining table with the operators’ union.
Keolis has since presented a revised budget number, which includes enhanced pay for workers. The company presented it at a meeting with union representatives on Feb. 14. The parties are still in negotiations. Meanwhile, the stoppages will continue into Friday.
All driver wages/benefits come directly from the state and localities, or more specifically the taxpayers. One hundred percent of any additional funds for wages are being provided through subsidies from the General Assembly or locality budgets. PRTC is only a conduit.
“We are disappointed by the local union’s decision to walk away from the table and disrupt our passengers,” said PRTC Board Chair and Prince William County Supervisor Victor Angry. “We encourage Keolis and the union to meet and resolve these issues. Until then we will work to operate as much service as possible. We genuinely appreciate our front-line workforce and value their connection to the community.”
As noted, bus operators are hired by Keolis, and OmniRide is not a party to the negotiations. OmniRide’s focus is to encourage the two parties to maintain active and productive negotiations.
PRTC and Keolis have enhanced security details and have support from Prince William County Police to ensure the safety and security of all PRTC and Keolis staff reporting for work. Keolis has assured PRTC that, regardless of service levels, every employee who reports to work will be paid.
FROM BRISTOW BEAT
The strike is being led by Teamster 639, which alleges Keolis is engaged in illegal labor law practices.
"After failing to negotiate a new contract with its workforce since September 2022, Keolis Transportation forced approximately 150 drivers represented by Teamsters Local 639 onto an unfair labor practice strike at 3 a.m. earlier today," wrote a teamster spokesperson on Feb. 13.
The work stoppage continues, while collective bargaining between Keolis and the bus operators’ is still ongoing. The parties are scheduled to meet again on Friday.
Commuters seeking an alternate commute may consider the Virginia Railway Express (VRE), joining a carpool or vanpool or slugging. OmniRide Customer Service can assist riders who wish to explore other commute options. You can reach them at 703-730-6664.
OmniRide will continue to operate service at the current service level noted below.
Riders can follow updates by following RIDER ALERTS on OmniRide.com as links may change.
Riders can also follow the OmniRide Facebook page PRTCTransit for updates and information.
OMNIRIDE EXPRESS commuter buses will not operate due to an extreme shortage of bus operators -- including Stafford, Prince Willliam and Manassas area.
OMNIRIDE METRO EXPRESS buses will not operate due to an extreme shortage of bus operators.
OMNIRIDE LOCAL
The eastern transfer hub will continue to be at Potomac Mills for the eastern local routes. Buses will not go to the Transit Center.
EAST-WEST EXPRESS (96) will operate regular service, starting on Wed.
OMNIRIDE ACCESS paratransit will operate regular service.
OMNIRIDE CONNECT microtransit will operate its regular service.
Riders who need travel assistance should call OmniRide Customer Service at 703-730-6664. We apologize for the inconvenience and disruption to your commute. Further updates will be provided as necessary.
About Us
OmniRide is the operating name for the mobility services offered by the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC). The organization provides Local bus service in Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park; Express service for commuters along the I-95 and I-66 corridors to employment centers in Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.; and Metro Express which connects riders with Metro Stations. OmniRide’s Ridesharing program offers services for carpoolers and vanpoolers. In addition, OmniRide’s Employer Services assists local employers who wish to establish or expand an employee transportation program.
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