LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Thousands of Kentucky Truck Plant workers are still on the picket line, holding out for better pay and benefits.

Nearly 9,000 plant workers in Louisville joined the United Auto Workers (UAW) strike last Wednesday. The move happened quickly, and caught Kristy Davis, the shift supervisor at New Direction Bar & Grill, by surprise.

New Direction is close to the UAW Union Hall and a popular spot for Ford workers.

"I just didn't think that they'd hit this plant," Davis said.

Normally on a Monday afternoon, the restaurant is full of Ford workers.

"You could always count on them. They're here (from) 4:30 (p.m.) on," Davis said.

Right now, many are on the picket line, or staying home to save money.

"So with us being down, it's also hurting them (businesses) as well," KTP worker Jordan Burden said.

WDRB News caught up with Burden and Kevin McGill, another 9-year KTP veteran, outside of Corner Pizza & Pub. It's also usually full of Ford workers.

"They've always catered to us. They've always taken care of us," McGill said.

McGill and Burden said the pub's owner has even delivered late-night pizzas to the picket line.

"That's why my wife and I are here tonight eating supper," McGill said. "Because I like to support places that support us."

A meal out is a rare treat for McGill and others. Without the regular trips to work at the plant, fewer dollars are spent at the usual spots.

"Every little penny that 8,000-9,000 people have stopped at for a cup of coffee, gas, Egg McMuffin, or some kind of breakfast sandwich, that's money in the whole community that's being affected," McGill said.

Like many others, McGill and Burden said they're sacrificing wages now for a brighter future than Ford currently offers.

"When I retire, I get nothing besides a 401K," McGill said. "I get no insurance package, I get no pension."

One Louisville economist estimates that for every Ford worker, another three jobs are supported by the company's presence. He told WDRB News a prolonged strike could have a big financial impact.

"It can be damaging to many of the businesses around here," Davis said. "Gotta have them here."

Davis and thousands of others are hoping to see the union and "Big Three" automakers reach a deal soon so the regular customers can return to happy hour.

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