The city of Kyle is partnering with Uber Technologies to provide residents with more flexible transportation by early August.
Residents will request rides using the Uber mobile app. Kyle officials will distribute a voucher link to users through the app. Users will be eligible to start subsidized rides for trips that start and end within city limits.
Riders will be expected to pay the first $3.14 of a trip and the city will subsidize up to $10 per trip after that. Operations will run 24 hours a day and seven days a week.
The original six-month program was approved for an $80,000 budget. Jerry Hendrix, chief of staff for Kyle, is concerned about having a limited budget as the end of the fiscal year approaches.
“We only have two months left of the fiscal year,” Hendrix said. “Council has the ability to adjust that if they would like. We’ve also earmarked $150,000 potentially in next year’s budget.”
With the coronavirus at the forefront of everyone’s agenda, council member Robert Rizo questioned how Uber will maintain a safe environment.
John McGinty, who oversees partnerships with cities and transit agencies, said Uber will be implementing safety guidelines for drivers to follow before taking a trip.
“Every driver has been given disinfectants, masks and cleaning supplies from us to clean their vehicles,” McGinty said. “For a driver to take a trip on their platform, they have to take a selfie and have approval to take rides. The driver has to wear a mask.”
McGinty said riders will also be expected to follow Uber’s guidelines before requesting a ride.
“Riders sign off to wearing masks for trips right now, wash their hands and take precautions,” McGinty said. “Additionally, riders are sitting in the backseat now. They’re cracking windows if possible to promote more airflow.”
Uber also reduced the number of individuals allowed in a regular car from four to three. The company is working with local public health authorities to adapt to the needs of residents during the pandemic.
