In response to substantial decreases in window transactions at retail units, the Postal Service is considering consolidating operations in larger stations and branches.  It is possible that operations will be discontinued in branches and stations in Level 24 and above post offices.  Factors being considered are the impact on employees, service standards, cost savings, customer access, environmental impact, real estate values, and the needs of the service.

In Pennsylvania, we are aware of reviews in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Bethlehem, Erie, Reading, Altoona, Johnstown, Norristown, Scranton, Wilkes-Barre and York.

While no decisions have been made, the PPWU vehemently opposes the wholesale closing of so many offices of employment for our members.  At a time when we should be looking for ways to increase revenue, our employer is considering making it much more difficult for our customers to use our products.  Now is not the time to restrict access to our products!

Excessing is already rampant throughout the country.  There are no jobs to place those employees already identified as being excessed to the needs of the service.  Employees are being sent to jobs that are 500 miles away from their current duty station.  Massive closings of stations and branches will result in further excessing, with no jobs for employees to go to.

We must educate our communities, contact our congressional and state representatives, and do whatever we can to protect the universal service that the Postal Service is sworn to provide to every US citizen.

 - Fran