LA PLATA, Md. — A strike by Martz Gold Line workers has suspended service on six Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) commuter bus routes that serve Charles and St. Mary’s counties, impacting thousands of daily riders commuting to Washington, D.C.
The walkout began at 4 a.m. Thursday, April 24, and includes bus operators, mechanics and technicians represented by the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 689. The union announced the strike in a statement earlier today.
Impacted MTA Routes
The following commuter bus lines are not operating today:
- Route 305: Waldorf to Washington, D.C.
- Route 315: Waldorf to Washington, D.C.
- Route 325: Waldorf to Washington, D.C.
- Route 630: La Plata and Waldorf to Washington, D.C.
- Route 640: Waldorf and Accokeek to Washington, D.C.
- Route 735: Charlotte Hall and Waldorf to Washington, D.C.
These routes typically run along heavily traveled corridors, including Maryland Routes 5, 301 and 228, as well as Indian Head Highway, providing vital commuter access to the D.C. metro area.
Union Cites Contract Dispute
The striking employees, represented by ATU Local 689, allege that Martz Gold Line has failed to bargain in good faith and is offering wages that fall below those of comparable transit employers in the region. Union leaders also oppose a proposed “charter rate” pay scale, which they say would lock workers into reduced wages over the long term.
The union reported that 88 percent of Martz employees voted to authorize the strike in March. “Our members at Martz deserve dignity,” the union posted on social media earlier this week. “It’s time to tell management that enough is enough.”
ATU Local 689 President Raymond Jackson called the strike a response to “unacceptable labor law violations,” adding that the union has made repeated attempts to reach a fair agreement.
“The union does not tolerate companies that try to bully workers at the bargaining table. Throughout the negotiations, there has been only one party, the union, that’s been operating in good faith and actually wants to reach a deal,” said Jackson. “Martz Gold Line’s labor law violations are unacceptable and now is the time for workers to fight back.”
Strike Authorization at Other Transit Companies
While the current walkout only affects Martz Gold Line, other regional transit companies may follow. Workers at Dillon’s Bus Service, which operates Towson Loop and routes in Hanover, have also authorized strike action. According to ATU Local 689, 94 percent of Towson-based employees and 98 percent of Hanover workers voted in favor of a strike during recent union meetings.
ATU Local 689 represents more than 15,000 transportation workers in the Washington metropolitan area, including operators for Metrobus, Fairfax Connector and the DC Circulator.
Rider Advisory
Commuters who rely on the affected routes should seek alternative transportation options. MTA is posting service alerts and updates at mtamarylandalerts.com.
The BayNet reached out to Martz Bus, Gold Line Inc. for a response. A company spokesperson replied, “Martz Bus, Gold Line Inc. has no comment regarding your inquiry at this time.”
Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com
