SAN ANGELO, TX – Taxi’s in San Angelo will now be competing for customers with Lyft, a ride-sharing service.
The service officially kicked off Thursday, according to Lyft.
“I think it’s a great idea, I know it’s kind of like Uber so I think it would be a great idea,” Kimber Lee, who has used similar services, said.
Passengers request a ride using their smart phones on the Lyft app. Prices vary depending on the time of day and the size of the car requested.
According to data by the Pew Research Center, 28 percent of those who use the ride hailing services are between 18 to 29.
“It’s really convenient I would use it all over the place if i can’t bike there,” Jesse Lee, an Angelo State University student, said.
Meanwhile other students say they have their own vehicles and don’t see themselves using the service.
“Personally I have a vehicle, so I wouldn’t use it much,” Frank Callahan, ASU student, said.
Fox News First reached out Lyft on their decision to operate in San Angelo, the company issuing this statement:
We’ve heard directly from people who want Lyft in more markets across Texas. We’re continuing to work with state and local leaders to find a way forward that preserves access to Lyft’s affordable, reliable rides for everyone.”
“I think it’s pretty convenient,” Kimber Lee said. “I think it would be a good idea especially for those who live on campus and don’t have a vehicle it would be nice to have that option.”
The City of San Angelo also reacting to the ride-sharing service with this statement:
“We will be evaluating City ordinance that regulate taxicabs to determine if revisions are needed to include this new service in our community and to ensure the public’s protection when using such services.”
Users voiced concerns on safety and whether drivers were vetted.
“I think just as a girl it’s kind of scary sometimes to get in a vehicle with someone you don’t know, but I used similar services before and I’ve haven’t had any problems with it,” Kimber Lee, said.
According to Lyft, they do run extensive background checks on drivers.
