GRT buses will run Friday as tentative agreement reached
Posted Apr 30, 2026 05:34:00 PM.
Last Updated May 1, 2026 11:20:39 AM.
Grand River Transit (GRT) services will continue uninterrupted on Friday as a tentative agreement was reached between the Region of Waterloo and Unifor Local 4304.
The two sides had been at the bargaining table all week in an effort to reach an agreement.
The union represents approximately 850 GRT workers, including bus operators, who are still in a legal strike position, but pending ratification of the new deal, will not hit the picket lines.
That ratification vote will happen on Sunday, May 3.
A regional spokesperson said as of Thursday afternoon, negotiations were continuing with the union. Shortly after 8 p.m., a tentative deal was announced.
A strike by the workers would have impacted GRT buses and MobilityPLUS services, but not the ION.
Unifor Local 4304 said it is working to achieve a fair collective agreement that addresses wages, scheduling, and benefits.
The Region of Waterloo says its committed to reaching a deal that’s competitive for GRT staff and affordable for residents.
