San Antonio Police have made their position clear; Lyft drivers will be stopped in the city when they are caught. Lyft, the app-driven, car-for-hire service, describes itself as a ride-sharing program, and is therefore not subject to the city's current ordinance, which includes fees and additional regulations.
The SAPD voiced concern for public-safety regarding the quality of drivers and their pink-mustachioed vehicles. Taxi drivers came out in droves at last week's public safety hearing to protest their new competition. They argued the service should be held to the same standard as taxis and other ride-for-hire services.
Mayor Julián Castro voiced support for the ride-share programs, asking for the parties to find common ground and compromise.
Similar battles are playing out from cities in Lyft's home state of California to Seattle and beyond.
How should cities accommodate these new providers? Is there a difference between ride sharers like Lyft, UberX and Sidecar and legacy taxi and limo providers? Is this a case of over regulation of all involved?
Guest:
- Vianna Davila, transportation reporter for the San Antonio Express-News
*This is the first segment in the April 7 edition of The Source, which airs at 3 p.m. on KSTX 89.1 FM -- audio from this show will be posted by 5:30 p.m.
**Clips provided by TPR Reporter, Ryan Loyd