Deal gets buses back on the street, Mayor promises zero tolerance for crime on buses

DETROIT (WXYZ) - Saying the city would have "zero tolerance" for "hooligans" who attack bus drivers, Mayor Bing unveiled the details of the agreement that put DDOT bus drivers back to work after a stoppage that left riders stranded without transportation.

The deal includes an increased police presence at the Rosa Parks Transit Center and throughout the city on bus routes. It also includes random pull overs of buses to make sure there is no "negative behavior" towards bus drivers.

CrimeStoppers has also agreed to post $1,000 rewards for information leading to the arrest and conviction of any person guilty of attacking a bus driver.

There will also be monthly meetings to address and make improvements to security on the buses.

Mayor Bing says the new measures show that "the city is committed to the safety of bus drivers and passengers."

This morning, drivers refused to run their routes due to an altercation that took place Thursday between a driver and a passenger.

YOU CAN SEE RAW VIDEO OF THAT FIGHT IN THE VIDEO PLAYER TO THE LEFT. IT DOES INCLUDE SOME GRAPHIC LANGUAGE.

One union member told us the bus protest spontaneously started at 4:00 a.m. when one driver said, "I'm too afraid to drive today."

Drivers want some sort of protection or safety plan implemented before they'll get back behind the wheel.

A recorded message by DDOT says buses will be running late today. However, the message does not say how long riders will have to wait.

Detroit Public Schools issued the following statement:

Dear Detroit Public Schools parents,

We have learned that there are no Detroit Department of Transportation (city) buses running this morning.

This does not affect DPS yellow buses, which are running normally.

If your family has access to any alternative form of transportation for your high school students, we encourage you to utilize those this morning. The high schools are aware of the situation and there will be no negative consequences for students who arrive late or who are unable to attend due to this situation, which is beyond their control.

Additionally, DPS Police Dept. personnel will provide additional watch near bus stops where children may be congregated.

Thank you for your patience.
 

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