ATU Local 1328 Negotiated Contract With Transdev

The Wilmington transit union has presented wage and policy concerns to the local transportation board.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Unions

Isometric editorial illustration of a heavy-duty transit bus wheel, representing the structural nature of public transportation labor negotiations. — ATU Local 1328 is seeking a 7% wage increase from Transdev in Wilmington to address staffing turnover and rising living costs. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Representatives from ATU Local 1328 have engaged in contract negotiations with Transdev, requesting a 7% wage increase. The union argues current compensation fails to keep pace with the rising cost of living in Wilmington.

Why it matters

The union highlights that low pay and staffing issues have driven a 32% turnover rate for bus operators. These negotiations are occurring despite North Carolina General Statute 95-98, which limits local government involvement in union collective bargaining.

The union is seeking a 7% wage increase against Transdev’s 4% offer, while the operator turnover rate reached 32% for fiscal year 2025-2026. Wage negotiations remain active for a system employing 50 operators with a $17.4 million annual budget.

The players

ATU Local 1328

This is the transit union representing the bus operators working for the regional transit system.

Transdev

This is the private company contracted to manage and operate the local bus services.

Cape Fear Public Transportation Authority

This entity provides the primary funding and regional oversight for public transportation operations.

The details

Union representatives presented their demands to the Cape Fear Public Transportation Authority, citing wage concerns and a policy that terminates employees after eight late arrivals. The authority oversees funding from the city, county, UNCW, and the federal government.

September 24, 2026: Union representatives addressed the transportation board.
June 2027: The Transdev contract is scheduled for renewal.

Political Context

The labor negotiations are directly shaped by North Carolina General Statute 95-98, which restricts local government collective bargaining. This policy creates a complex environment for public sector unions and private contractors aiming to address staffing shortages.

The dispute over bus operator wages and turnover rates could affect local public transit reliability and service frequency. Residents may see changes to service staffing or policy if contract negotiations force operational adjustments at Wave Transit.

The takeaway

The high turnover rate of 32% underscores the challenges of maintaining consistent staffing levels in local transit systems. Resolving the wage gap remains critical to stabilizing the workforce before the next contract renewal in 2027.

What happens next

The current Transdev contract is scheduled for renewal in June 2027, which will likely serve as the next major deadline for formal wage and policy adjustments.