A rideshare company focused on increasing transportation options in small and medium-sized communities is expanding its service to Red Deer starting at noon on May. 17.
Red Deer is the third Alberta community for Uride, which launched in Grande Prairie last June, and is also available in Medicine Hat.
"Our whole team is super excited to get up and running in Red Deer. We've had Red Deer on our radar for quite a while now," said Ravi Dhami, western regional manager of Uride.
He said Uride, which got its start in Thunder Bay, Ont. in 2017, is definitely looking to continue to expand in Alberta.
Founded by former professional soccer player, Cody Ruberto, from Thunder Bay, Uride's mission is to end impaired driving and provide local communities with reliable and convenient transportation.
Dhami said Ruberto understood the transportation issues facing his hometown, and he also wanted people to have a safe alternative to help prevent deaths caused by impaired driving.
He said residents in communities like Thunder Bay, Red Deer, and others have faced difficulties accessing transportation during peak times and at major events and Uride wants the change that.
"People were either waiting hours for rides, or constantly showing up late."
He said Uride already has a few dozen drivers in Red Deer, with more on the way, and Uride is committed to supporting its drivers through the city's licensing process.
"This approach not only aligns with our commitment to safety but also strengthens our service by ensuring that our drivers are well-qualified and ready to serve the community effectively."
Uride is also community-focused with its Good Deeds program dedicated to support local charities and community projects.
Uride is kicking off its arrival in Red Deer with a special promotion. New users can enjoy free rides up to $10 with the promo code TRYURIDE until May 26.
For more information visit www.uride.co.