SEPTA-City of Philadelphia Joint Statement
Potential Transit Police Work Stoppage

June 10, 2008

SEPTA remains optimistic that a contract agreement can be reached with the union representing the Transit Police without any disruption in their duties.  In the event that a settlement cannot be reached before the announced Transit Police work stoppage on Thursday, June 12, 2008 at 2:00 p.m., SEPTA and the City of Philadelphia have worked together to develop a Safety Contingency Plan.

Among the measures in place – City of Philadelphia Police, SEPTA Police Commanders, and private security agents will assume joint responsibility for patrolling and monitoring activity within the SEPTA system.

All necessary actions will be taken to continue to ensure the safety of our customers and the safe operation of the SEPTA system through the implementation of the Safety Contingency Plan.

The union representing the Transit Police has urged passengers to stay off SEPTA in the event of a strike due to safety concerns.

Mayor Nutter and General Manager Casey have both expressed great disappointment that the union would resort to scare tactics in an attempt to negotiate this agreement. 

“To suggest, as the union spokesman has done, that SEPTA will be unsafe in the event of a strike is not only irresponsible, it is an insult to Philadelphia Police Officers and SEPTA Police Commanders,” said Mayor Nutter.  “SEPTA will be safe – that is our commitment.  To suggest otherwise is like falsely yelling “fire” in a crowded theater.  It’s reckless, dangerous and counterproductive.”

“It is unfortunate that the FOTP has been unable to ratify three agreements negotiated by their union leadership and is contemplating a work stoppage”, said SEPTA GM Joe Casey.  “We want to assure the public that our system will continue to be safe regardless of the union’s decision and we remain willing to discuss contract issues at the bargaining table.”