(WWJ) A strike that could affect drivers at the Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel is on hold, at least for now.
The Canadian Customs and Immigration Union announced late Friday afternoon that the picket signs are being put away as contract negotiations have moved forward.
The union said the new target date for their demands to be met is next Wednesday, June 12.
That's good news for drivers on both sides of the border, as workers at both the Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel would be involved in any potential strike.
Canadian law prevents those more than 9,000 border workers from walking off the job as they are considered "essential workers." But other strike tactics — including asking drivers extra questions at the border crossings to increase wait times — would certainly cause backups.
WWJ's Scott Ryan reports backups at the border crossings Friday were significantly heavier than normal as the 4 p.m. June 7 target for the strike loomed. By mid-afternoon, there was already a 30 minute delay headed into Canada from Detroit.
Members of the Customs and Immigration Union have been without a contract for more than two years.
Top issues remaining include pay, flexible and remote work options and retirement benefits, according to reports.
WWJ will keep you posted with any developments.
Stay with WWJ Newsradio 950 for updates on any backups at the border during traffic and weather, every 10 minutes on the 8s. Listen anywhere on the FREE Audacy app.