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A last-minute agreement between SEPTA and Transport Workers Union Local 234 prevented a city-wide transit shutdown, with both sides settling on a two-year contract that raises wages 3.5% annually and boosts pensions, night-shift pay, and new-hire benefits. Union leaders say members’ frustration had been mounting after working without a contract, but credited renewed negotiations — aided by Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro — for breaking the stalemate. The deal now heads to union ratification and SEPTA’s board, helping stabilize operations following a difficult year for the transit system.