Project Summary
Cities throughout California and the United States have implemented programs that provide scrip to pay for taxis for seniors, low income people, and those with disabilities. However, scrip programs generate considerable paperwork and there are frequent complaints about service, so cities and scrip users have expressed interest in using mobility services like Uber and Lyft. These services do not accept scrip and require smartphones and credit cards, which some seniors do not have. This study will develop one or more program designs through which California cities can include ride-matching services such as Uber and Lyft in subsidized mobility programs, which currently provide participants with scrip to pay for taxi rides. The research team will review programs across California and the U.S. to identify current program designs, including their strengths and limitations. The costs and benefits of concierge programs will also be evaluated given these programs may be able to serve as an intermediary between ride-matching services and users. One or more program designs will be developed that would make ride-matching services available to subsidized mobility program users. The City of Berkeley will serve as a key partner on this project and will work closely with the research team to engage providers and user groups to assess the options and develop the program design(s). If one or more of the designs receives City authorization, then the research team will test and evaluate one or more of them.