Lockout Between Union, Roadbuilders Could Mean More Headaches

Headaches for drivers due to road projects in Michigan could go on longer, thanks to a dispute between road construction companies and one union.

The Detroit News reports a number of projects could be delayed due to a lockout by companies that are members of the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association.

They’re locking out members of the Operating Engineers Local 324 beginning at 7 a.m. on Tuesday. These are workers that operate backhoes, bulldozers, cranes and excavators.

The contract between the association members and the union expired back in June.

The only thing approaching negotiations has been mailed flyers, with no direct meetings.

The union does not want to negotiate with the MITA, but instead wants to deal with each individual construction company.

It is expected that companies will bring non-union personnel in to replace the union members. Although road work could be significantly affected, the Michigan Department of Transportation is not a party to the dispute.