While the first phase of the controversial mass transit system goes up for bidding within a month, those most affected by the project, the drivers, assistants and owners of vehicles that operate along Maximo Gomez Avenue are complaining. Among the complaints is that they have not received any specific information about the project itself. The unions are warning that if their needs are not considered they will begin a series of work stoppages next week at both the local and regional level, and this will affect 98% of the passengers from northern Santo Domingo. The FENATRANO union is asking minister Diandino Pena, the head of the metro project, to enter into an agreement which will allow the union to be integrated into the project once it begins to function. Reading between the lines, this means that the union seeks to run the metro operation with its personnel. The document sent to the media says that they will begin a “plan of action” if they are not listened to. Yesterday, Diandino Pena said that the first phase of the project would cost US$195 million and last for four years. Bids are to be tendered within a month.