2018: County tries Lyft option

Access Press
7/10/2018 by Access Press Staff

In Dakota County, people with disabilities are trying a different option for transportation. The pilot project involves contracting with the ride-sharing service Lyft. The contract will allow Lyft to bill the county for rides, within restrictions on the number of rides per month, county officials said. The project is funded with a $100,000 state grant.

“People with disabilities want to work, but in Dakota County in particular, transportation is a big barrier to getting to your job,” said Megan Zeilinger, the county’s employment services manager. Many people aren’t able to contract with Metro Mobility for rides.

Dakota County officials said that the program, which begins this summer, gives people with disabilities increased independence and saves them time. With reliable transportation, many people will be able to increase their hours or even rejoin the workforce, Zeilinger said.

Dakota County’s ride-sharing project is the first in the state to work with local government, said Noel Shughart, Minnesota Department of Transportation transit planner. It’s expected to serve 500 adults with disabilities by 2019, and state officials hope to replicate it elsewhere.

Some disability advocates and potential riders point out possible problems, including safety concerns. Kathy Sutherland said her son Grant, 23, who has autism, worries about the backgrounds of the new drivers picking him up every day. “He’s nervous about a stranger hurting him,” she said.

In other cities, Lyft has faced complaints about its service to people with disabilities.

Dakota County officials said they chose Lyft over ride-sharing competitor Uber because of its strong customer service and, they believe, more robust background checks for drivers. (Source: Star Tribune)