There is still no solution to the now three-week-long lockout of union heavy equipment operators by the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association. Governor Snyder gave an update on the labor impasse today after his first face-to-face talks with both MITA and Operating Engineers Local 324, and says both sides are still far apart on even a short-term solution. He says he’s keeping several options open.
“How we could potentially use the National Guard on some critical projects; it wouldn’t be the same as typical construction, but could they help get some (projects) in a better spot than they are today to looking at legal options,” said Snyder. He adds time is running out to get some of the 150 projects that are currently stalled finished with winter looming.
The governor stressed he is not taking sides and simply wants to get work resumed on the 150 stalled road projects statewide. MITA, which represents 40 construction companies, locked out the heavy equipment engineers on September 4, and the most recent contract expired in June. Snyder said calling in the National Guard to handle some of the more pressing projects is still on the table.
