Michigan roadwork set to resume after labor dispute

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s Governor Rick Snyder announced that work will begin on road projects immediately. The announcement came after the contractors’ association and operating engineers’ union agreed to work through the 2018 construction season without a contract.

Gov. Snyder worked with Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association and Operating Engineers 324 to create a short-term solution to the construction dispute.

According to the Governor’s office, the agreement includes:

  • MITA will end the lockout on all projects
  • The Operating Engineers will have their workers report to work immediately
  • The priority for work will be for projects that can be completed prior to significant winter weather arriving
  • Other projects will continue for as long as possible, including work to prepare them for safe winter travel if they cannot be completed
  • Contractors and OE324 will use professional mediation through the winter to help them with negotiations for a new contract

Michigan’s Department of Transportation will manage the list of projects that will and will not be completed before Michigan’s winter weather.

MDOT is planning to review contract adjustments related to completion dates, work extensions, and financial penalties in regards to projects.

All road work projects will be closely monitored to ensure a high level of quality, according to Gov. Snyder.


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