PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Union workers at the Omni Hotel in Providence "overwhelmingly" ratified a new contract on Tuesday, 12 News has learned. The new contract reportedly includes wage increases and improved benefits with more affordable health care for UNITE HERE Local 26 workers. On Aug. 7, Omni Providence employees voted to authorize a strike after working without a contract since the previous agreement expired at the end of January. RELATED: Omni Hotel workers vote to authorize strike for better pay, working conditions Omni Providence workers hold an informational picket outside the hotel on Aug. 18, 2024 (Photo: WPRI-TV) "With the pay raise, I will no longer have to work two to three jobs at a time, seven days a week. I can spend more time with my children, and we can go on vacation every year," said Shakria Abad Payano, a room inspector at the hotel. “My coworkers and I put a lot of work into this fight,” said George Cook, who works at the Omni Providence Hotel as a banquet houseperson. “I’m happy that we’re able to get the best contract we’ve ever had, with wage increases that will help us pay our rent and take care of our families.” The union said negotiations with Omni properties in Boston are still ongoing, and contracts at the Omni Boston Seaport Hotel and the Omni Parker House are still unresolved. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News SIGN UP NOW