Members of the BLET on December 5 ratified a new contract with the Indiana Southern Railroad (ISRR). The on-property agreement governs rates of pay, benefits, and work rules for 13 BLET locomotive engineers and conductors.
The five-year deal runs through the end of 2029 and provides general wage increases of 22.5% (24.5% compounded) over the life of the contract (8% at signing; 3.0% in 2026; 3.0% in 2027; 4.5% in 2028; and 4.0% in 2029). Other improvements include increased meal allowances when traveling off the Indiana Southern territory, an increased boot allowance to $275.00, and the addition of a parental leave benefit.
The BLET negotiating team consisted of National Vice President Pete Semenek and General Chairman Nick Mugavero. The members belong to BLET Division 270 (Washington, Ind.) and are represented by the CP Rail/U.S. General Committee of Adjustment.
A Genesee & Wyoming property, the ISRR operates 196 miles of track between Indianapolis and Evansville, Ind. It handles primarily coal and agricultural commodities.
Photo: courtesy of John Leopard