If you live in a multi story building, a broken elevator quickly becomes a major problem. For residents across Saint John and the Maritimes, relief is finally here. Elevator mechanics returned to work this week. This brings much needed help to seniors and people with mobility issues who spent the last month stranded or struggling on the stairs.

Photo by Mark Leger for CBC

The Daily Climb Takes a Toll

Sue and Bob Mowery live on the sixth floor of a century old apartment complex in uptown Saint John. Their elevator stopped working in February. The property management company, Historica Properties, struggled to find parts for the old system. Just as repairs began last month, elevator mechanics went on strike.

“We are struggling, really struggling. We are not kids anymore,” Sue Mowery told CBC News. “We are doing the stairs a minimum of four times a day.”

Bob Mowery relies on a pacemaker and is recovering from a recent hernia surgery. He paces himself during the climb. The trip takes him about 10 minutes from bottom to top.

Strike Ends and Repairs Resume

Members of Local 125 of the International Union of Elevator Constructors walked off the job on September 10. The strike halted ongoing repairs and left new service calls unanswered. Workers returned to the job on Thursday.

The union has not released an official statement on negotiations. TK Elevator confirmed it resumed normal operations. Company spokesperson Swetha Sharma stated they will prioritize facilities that support essential infrastructure and life safety functions. This includes hospitals and long term care facilities.

Photo by Mark Leger for CBC

Community Steps Up During the Outage

During the outage, neighbors and property managers stepped up to help. Historica Properties sent staff to help the Mowerys with groceries. Neighbors took their dogs for walks.

Similar scenes played out at Westwood Estate Apartments in Oromocto. Superintendent Angie Manning manages the four story building. The building houses around 150 residents, mostly seniors. Manning and her team helped residents get to doctor appointments and carry groceries. Workers arrived at the Oromocto building late Wednesday to begin repairs.

“As soon as it is fixed, they are like, When is the party?” Manning said.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why were elevator mechanics on strike?

Members of Local 125 of the International Union of Elevator Constructors went on strike on September 10 over contract negotiations.

When did the elevator mechanics return to work?

Mechanics began returning to job sites on Wednesday and Thursday of this week to resume repairs across the Maritimes.

Which buildings get priority for elevator repairs?

Elevator companies state they prioritize essential infrastructure. This includes hospitals and long term care facilities before moving on to residential buildings.