A sweeping school bus lockout in New York City has been averted, for now.
The remaining bus operators announced Thursday night they were signing a series of emergency extensions.
Early last week, the companies threatened to discontinue bus service for tens of thousands of students, and lay off drivers and attendants, as soon as Monday, Nov. 3 — unless a citywide education panel approved a five-year contract extension.
The buses have been operating on emergency extensions since the last renewal expired over the summer.
“In the end, this is about the children and our employees, period,” said Richard Bamberger, a spokesman for the companies. “Buses will be running on Monday.”
Reps for the public schools did not immediately return a request for comment.
The schools panel, known as the Panel for Educational Policy or “PEP,” opposes a long-term extension without changes to state law that would allow the city to competitively rebid school bus contracts — and push for better service for children. They passed a resolution doubling down on their stance on Wednesday night.
“This was a victory,” said Greg Faulker, the chair of the PEP. “The panel held firm. I think when we held that unanimous vote last night, it was a clear indication we were not going to give into pressure and it was a victory for kids.”
The city has not re-solicited bids in some half-century, while its families — especially students with disabilities, who make up a large share of riders — have complained of chronic bus delays and no-shows, a lack of air-conditioning or heat, and other issues.
The bus operators claim they reached a five-year deal with the Adams administration back in June after a year of negotiation. However, any finalized contract requires the approval of the PEP that, while mostly made of mayoral appointees, has been emboldened in recent months on this issue.
Next, Faulkner said he hoped to push for a two-year extension, possibly with a third year based on performance.
The bus companies said they “want and need” to work with the PEP: “This emergency extension will allow us to bring all parties to the table to work everything out,” Richard said.
