Coach USA/ShortLine bus drivers and other unionized members accepted a new contract Monday, leaving thousands of Rockland and Orange commuters relieved.

Only 166 members of Local 225 Transport Workers Union participated in the vote at a Suffern VFW post. The contract was ratified after 125 members voted in favor of the deal; 41 still rejected the offer for a third time.

Local 225 Chairman Richard Dorsogna attributes the low turnout to mechanics, ticket agents and drivers still being unhappy with the deal. Dorsogna adds that the bus company had also hired temporary workers during the 12-day strike.

The three-year deal increases the basic pay package by 4 percent annually.Before buses get back on the road, they will be serviced and inspected. Coach USA/ShortLine expects to resume full service to and from New York City by Wednesday, June 4 at 3 a.m.

Coach USA/ShortLine