PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – The deepest cuts in Port Authority history are slated to go into effect in two weeks, but there is growing hope they can be avoided.

Port Authority unions voted to ratify a new contract Sunday evening.

“Right now, we just guaranteed $15 million in concessions. The Port Authority is going to have to come up with another $10 million in concessions. Rich Fitzgerald is going to have to pitch in also. Along with the state, they’re supposed to come up with $30-$35 million,” Steve Palomis, business agent for Local 185, said.

Port Authority unions voted to ratify a contract that includes cutting health benefits to retirees and some pay freezes.

“What we’re looking for is hopefully we’ll get a dedicated stream that will grow with inflation so this doesn’t happen all the time,” union attorney Joe Pass said.

The Port Authority Board of Directors will meet on Tuesday to vote on the ratified contract. Union representatives said if state money isn’t forthcoming, the contract will go back to the old terms.

Should the Board of Directors vote to accept the contract, the next hurdles to clear would be with Allegheny County and the state.

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