WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) — The union representing school bus drivers in Warwick and Jamestown is expected to vote next weekend on a new contract. Transportation provider First Student said it's reached a tentative agreement with ATU Local 618, which must now be ratified by members of the union. Local 618 President/Business Agent Walter Melillo called it a "fair contract" that addresses the bus drivers' previous concerns. "This is a great day for our Warwick School bus members," Melillo said in a statement Wednesday. "After months of negotiations, this contract recognizes our members for the heroes they truly are.” BACKGROUND: Warwick school bus drivers picket for fair contract amid negotiations The two sides had been negotiating since April, but the talks stalled over the summer. The union voted last month to authorize a strike, if necessary, and Warwick bus drivers picketed on Strawberry Field Road to push for better wages and benefits. According to First Student spokesperson Frank McMahon, the new contract includes "significant increases in wages, improved health care benefits and enhanced retirement contributions." "We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement that recognizes the hard work and dedication of our employees," McMahon said in a statement. "We want to extend our sincere gratitude to all of our school bus drivers and monitors for their continued commitment to serve families in Warwick and Jamestown during this time." "I’m proud of our Warwick Public School bus drivers for their strength and unity to secure a tentative agreement with living wages that will allow them to provide for their families," ATU International President John Costa added. "This is a victory not only for these workers but for their students and parents who rely on our members to transport students to and from school safely." Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News SIGN UP NOW