NYC's Experimental Cab Share Program Could Head Here

By Marcus Gilmer in Miscellaneous on Jun 9, 2009 5:40PM

Last week, the mothership Gothamist covered a new pilot program in New York City focusing on cab shares. While cab share fares are in place here in Chicago, it's a very limited number program. Something closer to the experimental NYC program, though, could be making it's way here soon, according to the Sun-Times.

Manhattan's cab-sharing experiment is aimed at a broader audience. It calls for six designated group-ride corridors during morning rush -- some serving commuter rail and bus stations. Passengers will pay $3 or $4 and can enter and exit anywhere along the route.

In addition, up to 1,000 "share cabs" will operate citywide around-the-clock. They will be equipped with electronic screens to display the destination of passengers so others headed in the same direction can ride along for a 50 percent discount. Meters will divide the fare. New York cab czar Matthew Daus calls it a "utopian taxicab experience."

On the potential of a similar program being tried out here, Norma Reyes, commissioner of the city's Consumer Protection and Business Affairs Department, said, "If it's workable and could benefit the driver and consumer, absolutely."