The path to John Glenn Columbus International Airport's ambitious new terminal project is facing an unexpected hurdle: a disagreement between trade unions and project stakeholders over labor agreements.

Union leaders, concerned about protecting wages and benefits for both union and non-union workers, are pushing for a project labor agreement (PLA). Such agreements typically guarantee prevailing wages and benefits, and often prioritize local hiring.

"We wanted everybody to make top wages and benefits," said Dorsey Hager, executive secretary-treasurer of the Columbus/Central Ohio Building & Construction Trades Council. Unions point to successful PLAs on other major regional projects as evidence of their effectiveness in ensuring fair labor practices, on-time completion, and budget adherence.

However, both the Columbus Regional Airport Authority and Hensel Phelps, the project's general contractor, maintain they've made significant efforts to collaborate with the unions and have existing policies in place to address prevailing wages and local business opportunities. The airport authority emphasizes its commitment to hiring requirements for small businesses owned by minorities, women, and veterans.

A Balancing Act: Worker Rights vs. Project Efficiency

The current impasse raises critical questions about achieving a balance between protecting worker rights and ensuring project efficiency. While PLAs offer potential benefits in terms of labor standards and potentially a more skilled workforce, concerns exist regarding potential inflexibility and higher overall project costs.

Unintended Consequences? The Impact on Local Businesses

The disagreement also sparks a conversation about the impact on local businesses.  While unions advocate for PLAs as a way to prioritize local hiring, the airport authority emphasizes its existing policies designed to promote opportunities for small, minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses.

Finding Common Ground: The Path Forward

The success of the John Glenn Airport expansion hinges on finding a solution that addresses the concerns of all involved parties.  Further dialogue and a willingness to explore creative solutions are crucial  to bridging the gap. This could involve exploring alternative models for ensuring fair labor practices while maintaining project efficiency and fostering opportunities for local businesses of all stripes.

Ultimately, the project's future depends on the ability of stakeholders to move beyond their current positions and find common ground. Only then can construction begin on a new terminal that benefits both workers and the region's economic growth.