Strike avoided at Pilgrim nuclear plant

The owner of the Pilgrim nuclear plant in Plymouth and the union representing about 250 workers tonight reached a contract agreement just hours before the current pact expires, averting a threatened strike and lockout.

The settlement followed days of tense negotiations between the Utility Workers Union of America, Local 369, and Entergy Corp., of New Orleans. The union held a strike vote Wednesday, while Entergy had replacement workers ready.

Union officials said the pact increases wages but declined to disclose specifics before presenting them to members, who vote May 23 on ratification.
(By Robert Gavin, Globe staff)