PRESS RELEASE: SMART members at Alstom LA Metrolink deliver overwhelming ratification of new collective bargaining agreement

July 30, 2026:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: The members of SMART Railroad, Mechanical and Engineering Department (SMART-MD) Local 434 employed by Alstom on the Los Angeles Metrolink have overwhelmingly voted to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement. The new four-year contract delivers a total of 22% in general wage increases, $5,000 total in lump sum bonuses and substantial improvements to the members’ health and welfare benefits and monthly contributions.

“This ratification is a testament to what can be achieved when members stand together with a united voice,” said SMART General Committee 2 Directing General Chairman John McCloskey. “From the very beginning, our members made it clear that they expected an agreement that recognized their skills, dedication, and the critical role they play in serving the riding public. Because they remained engaged and united throughout negotiations, we were able to secure an agreement they could overwhelmingly support.”

“Every contract is ultimately won by the strength and solidarity of the membership,” said SMART International Representative Robert Shanahan, Jr. “Our members stayed engaged, informed, remained united, and demonstrated that when workers stand together, they have tremendous power at the bargaining table. This agreement belongs to every member who supported one another throughout this process.”

This agreement would also not have been possible without the support of SMART Local 105. 

“A strike with Alstom appeared imminent, but when we reached out to Local 105’s Business Manager Al Hernandez, he and Local 105’s Political Director Fernando Ochoa immediately went into action. Their outreach and solidarity sent a clear message that an injury to one is an injury to all. Alstom got the message, and together, we got a historic agreement,” said SMART Railroad, Mechanical and Engineering Director Peter Kennedy. “We are incredibly grateful for Local 105’s support in this contract campaign. This victory belongs not only to the bargaining unit, but to officers and members of Local 105 who stood with us.”

SMART International leadership emphasized that the ratification represents more than a successful contract — it reinforces the importance of solidarity in advancing the interests of railroad workers.

“Local 434 members at Alstom are essential to public transportation in Los Angeles, and they made it clear during negotiations that they needed a contract that recognized their work. Most importantly, they stood together and spoke with one voice to ensure their demands were heard,” said SMART General President Michael Coleman. “This agreement demonstrates that unity works. We are proud of our members, proud of our local leadership, and excited to continue building on this momentum.”

The newly ratified contract runs through June 30, 2029.