Bus driver negotiations continue in New Haven

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- Unionized bus drivers and their company are talking, but the threat of a strike still exists in New Haven.

Drivers briefly walked the picket line last week, creating some disruptions. The two sides sat down together Monday.

Except for a few rolling out of the bus yard, most school buses are staying put as negotiations continue between the union representing New Haven school bus drivers and the bus company First Student Transportation.

News 8 discovered the full yard on Middletown Avenue. That's because schools are closed for Rosh Hashanah, not because drivers are on strike, at least not yet.

"I hope they work it out and work it out quick," said Monica Harrell, parent.

Last week drivers rallied to remind folks they are still working without a new contract. It expired June 30th. They give First Student low grades on pay and safety.

The rally worried Harrell who drove her kids to school out of fear of a strike.

"Well I like to make sure they're going to get home," said Harrell.

A spokesperson for First Student tells News 8 talks with the union are going on right now and could continue through Tuesday. Whatever happens with those talks could determine what happens there Wednesday morning.

News 8 listened to parents who hope the buses will roll without interruption.

"If the bus drivers go on strike the parents will have to drive the kids to school and I'm sure some of them don't have cars," said Jessica Walker, parent. "It's going to be inconvenient. They'll have to walk. It's getting cold, what if it's raining?"

"It would affect our schedules on a daily basis," said Harrell. "Getting our children to school prior to going to work. So it would definitely inconvenience us."

One more thing, drivers have voted to strike if an agreement is not reached.