9 unions agree on contracts with Keolis after months of worker frustration

Nine more unions struck agreements with MBTA commuter rail operator Keolis, capping off months of public discontent and demonstrations from employees frustrated by a lack of negotiating progress.

Keolis announced Tuesday night that it reached a deal with a coalition representing the nine unions. Following an agreement earlier this year with the Transport Workers Union of America, Keolis has now completed deals with 10 of 14 worker unions, according to a spokesperson.

Once ratified by each union, the nine new agreements will be retroactive to July 1, 2023, which was the date the contracts became amendable, according to Keolis.

Company officials said the deals provide paid sick leave, pay raises of more than 20% over five years, improved health benefits, better bereavement and vacation offerings, and a paid holiday for Juneteenth. About 1,000 employees are in unions represented by the coalition, according to Keolis.

Some workers in unions that newly reached deals have been vocal about their concerns in recent months, arguing that commuter rail employees in Massachusetts earn less than their peers at other agencies.

Matt Hollis, chairman of the union coalition, said in a statement provided by Keolis that the agreement "ensures that our members will continue to receive the pay and benefits they deserve for the hard work they do."

Keolis has been contracted to operate the commuter rail network for the T since 2014. In April, MBTA overseers voted to extend the contract into mid-2027.