Lesniewski

UTU Local 440 represented train and engine workers employed by Central Railroad Company of Indiana have ratified, by a 91 percent approval, a new five-year collective bargaining agreement effective Jan. 1.

The agreement provides for annual wage increases, an additional paid holiday, flex days, enhanced overtime provisions, enhanced instructor allowance, additional meal allowance and improved bereavement leave.   

UTU International Vice President John Lesniewski, who assisted with the negotiations, thanked General Chairperson Andy Combs (CIR), Vice General Chairperson Tony Livengood and General Committee Secretary Bruce Huff for their “exceptional dedication and commitment in securing the most beneficial agreement possible for their members, which resulted in substantial improvement of their wages and working conditions.”   

Central Railroad Company of Indiana is a RailAmerica short-line that stretches through five southeastern Indiana counties and into Ohio, operating 96 miles of track. It interchanges with Canadian National, CSX, and Norfolk Southern, providing an integral link between Indiana and Ohio in this area. The railroad moves more than 11,000 cars annually, primarily transporting automobiles, chemicals, metals and aggregates.