The South Portland bus system could be merged into the Greater Portland Metro system after the South Portland City Council unanimously approved the plan Tuesday night.

Metro has agreed to hire all South Portland bus drivers and honor their seniority for pay and benefits as part of the merger.

Metro will operate all South Portland bus routes, which will save the suburban city $1 million over five years.

The merger will be finalized if it’s approved by the Greater Portland Metro Board of Directors later this month – Oct. 24 at 4 pm.

The Metro system would then take over South Portland bus service and the end of the year – Dec. 29.

CBS 13 News reports South Portland left Metro in 1983 and has operated its own bus system since. Officials say rejoining Metro has potential for improved regional connections between South Portland and the Greater Portland region.

Service in South Portland will remain the same, although Metro will likely offer suggested route improvements in the next few years.

Metro will also carry forward a project to improve access and accessibility to multiple bus stops in South Portland.