Hundreds of construction workers strike over pay -- is an agreement in sight?

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – Heavy equipment operators walked off the job at some major construction sites around Milwaukee. These include Marquette University's Rec Complex and the new parking structure at Froedtert Hospital. It has been two weeks since the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 139 members went on strike.

"Right now, our members feel like they are entitled to a little bit better pay than what they are being offered at the table and rightfully so," said President and Business Manager of Local 139 Terry McGowan.

President and Business Manager of Local 139 Terry McGowan said around 800 workers are on strike. They all operate heavy equipment like cranes and without them, other workers are being sent home.

"A recent study said the average wage increase in the state of Wisconsin is 5.2 and over. That's not what we are seeing at the bargaining table," said McGowan.

These strikes spread across six counties in southeast Wisconsin including: Racine, Kenosha, Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee, and Washington.

"The major jobs that are being delayed excessively right now total to about eight, but we are striking approximately 12 job sites within that six-county area, and we are also pitching some of the yards of the employers so materials cannot be transported by our members," said McGowan.

The work that is being delayed could affect events around the city.

"Especially with the RNC coming they're going to have a hard time tying these construction sites up and securing them I'm sure we will probably hear from the Secret Service that a construction site can't be left in that condition, so we are hoping to resolve something and meet the needs of the RNC as it comes to Milwaukee," said McGowan.

The Associated General Contractors of Greater Milwaukee sent us this statement:

"The contractors respect and appreciate the men and women of Local 139 and their leadership. The Union has exercised its right to strike and picket jobsites and we will continue to meet with the Union in good faith until we reach an agreement. They are union members, but they are also valued members of our respective firms, so we are disappointed to have not been able to reach e to agreement and get everyone back out into the field. We currently have a fair and very strong wage package on the table for consideration. We are scheduled to meet Friday morning to continue negotiations."

The Union has a meeting with its employers this Friday, June 14, and said they hope to come to an agreement.