Workers at Akron METRO RTA have been without a contract for 17 months, and now the congresswoman whose district includes the city is calling on both sides to get a deal done.

Members of Transport Workers Union Local 1 have been pushing for a wage increase, no change to health benefits, paid sick days and scheduled breaks.

Congresswoman Emilia Sykes urged both parties to come to an agreement in a letter addressed to Metro RTA CEO Dawn Distler Wednesday.

"I strongly encourage METRO RTA and the Transport Workers Union to reach a contracting agreement that honors the dignity of the work of the transit operators and avoids a strike to maintain the critical public services you provide," Sykes wrote. "Like you, these workers care deeply about the wellbeing of our community and are committed

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