Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett asked President Barack Obama to intervene in a commuter rail strike affecting tens of thousands of people in the Philadelphia region.
"I have requested federal intervention from the President to immediately mediate the ongoing dispute between SEPTA and the Engineers and Electricians Unions," Corbett wrote in a press release. "It is imperative that parties continue to work toward an agreement for the benefit of the tens of thousands of people who use SEPTA rail every day."
SEPTA workers went on strike Saturday. The move shuts down 13 train lines that carry commuters to the suburbs and to Philadelphia International Airport.
The strike adds to commuting headaches in the region, where major construction projects are making it more difficult than usual to get around.
“The people of Philadelphia and the surrounding region expect and deserve a safe and efficient rail system to get them to work, medical appointments, school, and recreation," Corbett said. "I call on both parties to work together, find common ground and place the riders at the forefront of mind in their discussions.”
