Jan 4

Jan 4 Topeka Metro launches 24/7 Ride-To-Work for South Topeka workers

On December 13, 2017, the Topeka Joint Economic Development Council (JEDO) awarded Topeka Metro funding to establish 24/7 transportation service to businesses in south Topeka. On December 15th, Topeka Metro implemented a "soft launch," partnering with Capitol City Taxi to provide 24/7 transportation, called the SOTO Ride-To-Work program at a cost of $5 for each ride.According to some south Topeka Kanza Fire Commerce Park human resource officials, a need existed for reliable transportation for the South Topeka workforce. For many employees, current transportation was either unreliable or alternatives like UBER, Lyft or a taxi was too expensive. This initiative provides an affordable option at $5 per ride for SOTO workers."We were first approached by Mars, then other businesses in the Kanza Fire Park were interested as well in a transportation solution," said Duffy. "It is exciting and we have already seen an average of 8 to 10 riders per day during our two-week soft launch," she said.The first passenger to take Capitol City Taxi to work was Joe Graen, who works for Maximus. His wife was working a 24-hour shift, and his car was in the shop so he wasn't sure how he would get to work."When I learned about this program the night before, I thought, 'this must be fate,' so I called and booked a ride," said Graen. "Capitol City Taxi arrived 5 minutes early in a clean cab with a professional appearing driver and he told me a little about how the program is being subsidized. I would highly recommend utilizing the Ride-To-Work program."The following businesses are currently participating in the Ride-To-Work program:

Qualified SOTO employees can book a ride at least 12 hours in advance and must show their work ID. Only cash will be accepted, and ADA-accessible trips are provided. More information is available at http://www.topekametro.org/topeka-metro-provides-5-rides-to-south-topeka-workforce.