Local Teamsters started striking several Capital Region cement companies this morning, halting deliveries.

More than a week after their four-year contract expired, about 60 members of the Local 294 went on strike today over wages. Strikers said they are seeking a 5-percent pay increse, while the companies are offering only 3 1/2 percent.

They follow other organized cement truck drivers who went on strike in New York City before the Fourth of July holiday weekend. That strike disrupted major projects in the city, such as the redevelopment of the World trade Center.

“The Teamsters have been out all over the Capital District,” said John Tesiero Jr., president of Cranesville Block Co. in Amsterdam, where about 20 drivers are on strike.

Clemente Latham Concrete in Troy also said its drivers are on strike.

Local 294 President John Bulgaro did not immediately return a call.