aerial view of Western's campus at night, with golden lights surrounded by dark trees

Update: WWU and WTA Discussions

Dear Campus Community, 

As we prepare for the holiday break, I want to share a brief update on Western’s ongoing conversations with WTA and what to expect in the coming weeks. 

First, thank you to everyone who attended the recent WTA public hearings and board meetings. Your presence and the stories you shared about how these proposed fare changes affect your daily life have been vital to this process.  

If you want to continue sharing your perspective, the next opportunity is the WTA Council meeting on Thursday, Dec.11 at 8 a.m., and members of our community are welcome to attend and offer public comment. 

Here’s where things stand right now: 

  • Discussions between WWU and WTA are expected to begin very soon, possibly this week. WTA staff have indicated they are ready to engage in further conversations.
  • The WTA board may still vote on fare increases while these conversations are happening. If that occurs, it should not be viewed as a sign that negotiations aren’t moving forward.
  • As with any complex negotiation, the timeline is uncertain. There is no set end date for these discussions. Talks may continue into Winter and Spring quarters, but both Western and WTA remain committed to meeting regularly and making steady progress. 

We have a contract that goes into September 2026, and we will continue to work on behalf of our Western community.  I will share another update shortly after the Winter Quarter begins. 

I hope you have a wonderful and restful holiday season! 

Joyce Lopes 
WWU Vice President of Business and Financial Affairs