Dear 589 members

As some of you may have heard, the MBTA brought in Peter Pan Bus Lines today to help with the Red Line shuttle buses. We felt it necessary to inform you, our members, of the circumstances behind this.

Due to the MBTA’s high demand and heavy ridership as a result of the Red Line shuttle, the MBTA found itself lacking the necessary equipment to meet our riders’ needs. The Authority contacted this Union in regards to the situation, and we chose to allow this action to take place during this extraordinary situation.

We recognize that some may perceive this as an overstep by the MBTA. However, we felt that during these unprecedented storm related issues, it had become abundantly clear that through no fault of this union or its members, the ability for the MBTA to service the public had been compromised―be it snow/storm issues or aging infrastructure.

In a one-time spirit of goodwill, we chose to work together with the MBTA and help our riders see some light at the end of what has been a long dreary tunnel. We do so with an eye toward fostering a better public perception and opinion of Local 589 members and MBTA employees in the eyes of our daily riders.

We ask and hope for your support during this difficult time. The decision to respond to our riders needs was an important factor in our decision. This union’s primary goals are, and always have been, to protect our members, to protect our work, and to provide exemplary service to our riders.

Although some may see this as a negative moment, we see this as a positive and conscious choice by this union during a time of need in our state―when all eyes are upon us. In the days ahead, we will continue to advocate for the much-needed investment in the system and to highlight the critical work you, our members, do each and every day.

Thank you for your professionalism and hard work during these difficult times.

In Solidarity

The Executive Board