State to meet with both sides of road construction lockout next week

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Hundreds of road construction projects across Michigan are at a stand-still for more than two weeks now.

Late Friday afternoon Gov. Rick Snyder's office said it will meet with both parties involved next week in hopes of resolving the problem. 

"We're definitely behind on these projects now," said Dan McKernan, a spokesperson for Local Union 324. 

Local Union 324's members were locked out of their construction jobs on Sept. 4 after contract negotiations broke down with the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association known as MITA, which represents many of the contractors hired to do the work.

"By doing so many of the projects across the state did in fact shut down," said Mike Nystrom, executive vice-president of MITA. "Many have continued to see progress with other trades, and other sub-contractors that are not affected by the labor stoppage."

With the projects behind schedule the governor has talked about bringing in The National Guard to finish them. 

"We have nothing but respect for The National Guard," McKernan said. "But they are not equipped in either manpower or equipment to come in and take over these projects."

"The best pool of workers right now are the ones sitting at home," said Mark Ring Local Union 324 member.

The stalled out construction projects are affecting drivers and businesses. Joe Monahan works at American Cycle & Fitness along M-59 in Macomb.

"We are seeing a definite 20 percent reduction in customers coming in," Monahan said.

And if the union and MITA don't come to a resolution soon, it may be a long winter, many warn.

"These projects could sit out unfinished over the winter," McKernan said.

Words no one wants to hear.

The governor's office released a statement Friday about next week's scheduled meeting with both sides. In a statement the office said:

"We have achieved a positive step forward in the road-building dispute. Both MITA and Operating Engineers 324 have agreed to cease the public battle in the media and attend a meeting - together - with Gov. Snyder next week. It is our hope that after a short cooling off period and with assistance from the Governor, both sides can see through their differences and focus on the vital work that needs to be completed so the motorists of Michigan can have road projects finished and their travel routes restored prior to winter. The Governor's Office will alert you to any other updates as they become available."