BOSTON — The MBTA and a transit workers' union are set to meet Monday over a financial proposal aimed at saving millions of dollars over the next few years.
The Carmen's Union represents 4,100 transit workers and is set to present its plan to the MBTA Fiscal and Management Control Board at noon.
The proposal aims to extend the union contract two years while identifying cost savings of $24 million over four years. The plan includes wage reductions for new hires, lower contractual wage increases, and the establishment of a Health Reimbursement Arrangement for employees.
"These proposed changes will have a lasting effect on the MBTA and its budget," said James O'Brien, President of the Boston Carmen's Union.
Earlier this month, the MBTA announced a voluntary retirement program aimed at lowering its workforce by 300 people. The retirement program was a part of a plan to close the estimated $80 million budget deficit.
Commuters are expected to feel the financial pinch this coming Friday, when fare rates go up an average of more than 9-percent.
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