NEW YORK [CBS] — Cabs are the driving force in New York, coming and going and carrying usually just one or maybe two people. However, New York is about to turn a major corner. This Friday, the City will start going down the group ride road.
“You can save money by sharing a ride,” said the group ride public service announcement.
Video – Group Taxi Rides Coming To The Big Apple
NEW YORK [CBS] — Cabs are the driving force in New York, coming and going and carrying usually just one or maybe two people. However, New York is about to turn a major corner. This Friday, the City will start going down the group ride road.
“You can save money by sharing a ride,” said the group ride public service announcement.
Go to one of the new group ride stands and, for a flat rate of $3 to $4, passengers will now be able to ride with up to five people along certain routes over to and down Park Avenue during the morning rush.
For many saving money is the primary motivation. It’s just slightly above bus fare.
“I think that’ll help save money,” said Cortney Thomas of the Bronx.
“It’s extremely expensive. Why not share?” added fellow Bronx resident Jen Bronxmeyer.
Many more, however, said the new service will stick taxis behind buses in the slow lane. “Probably takes more time,” mused Dara Bronxmeyer of Manhattan.
“I take taxis to save time, so for me it would just be easier to take a cab and get there quicker,” said Laura Taylor of Manhattan.
The entire proposal is unappealing to some taxi drivers, because of blurry details over the route, fare and tips. “Oh no no. It’s horrible.” said Biplib Patranabis. “It’s not a bus.”
Asked what difference does it make if people are paying, Patranabis answered: “We have to handle a complicated situation. It’s not desirable for us.”
City studies show the change will be very desirable for hundreds of passengers along the well-traveled routes.
It’s the next step in commuter evolution, and all of it driving in with the dawn Friday morning.
