The program will allow bus employees, including those represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 922 to report safety concerns that otherwise might go unreported without fear of possible discipline.
Officials had previously said the operator got off the train to put it into “bypass mode” after receiving permission to override a signal problem.
The campaign, including signs and posters that say “Respect is Mutual,” follows a 73% increase in assaults on operators this year compared to 2014.
Surveillance video obtained by the station shows the suspect snatching the unidentified driver’s purse while exiting the bus. The video later shows the suspect dragging the driver off the bus while she clings to her purse.
Staff in the main control room can now see exactly how many passengers have boarded a specific bus, can take over on-board cameras in an emergency and can redirect empty buses to fill service gaps when buses are running behind.