A potential crisis in New York City has been averted as the union representing thousands of doormen, porters, and superintendents announced a tentative agreement on Friday. This development comes amid threats of a strike that would have seen these essential workers walk off the job, disrupting the daily operations of many city buildings.

The 32BJ SEIU union, which counts 34,000 members across the city, reached a preliminary deal with the Realty Advisory Board On Labor Relations. This organization acts on behalf of the city’s building owners and was key in negotiating terms to address disputes over wages and healthcare benefits.

Had an agreement not been reached, the union members were poised to initiate their first strike since 1991, a move that was scheduled for the upcoming Tuesday. The potential strike had loomed large over the city, raising concerns about significant disruptions.