Uber launches ride sharing program in Wyoming

Following years of wishful thinking and talk, the residents of Wyoming are now able to catch a ride through Uber.

The ride sharing company will officially launch service for the first time in Wyoming Friday at 5 p.m. Governor Mead is expected to sign ridesharing legislation into law at 2 p.m., which will make it legal for Uber to operate everywhere in the state, effective immediately. Shortly following the official launch, Uber rides should be available.

Over the past several weeks, Uber has been actively communicating with potential driver-partners in Casper, Cheyenne, Jackson, Gillette, Laramie, Rock Springs and Sheridan. But the service is available anywhere in the state, so there are no restrictions on where driver-partners and riders can use the app.

Brian Carver, a Uber driver from Cheyenne says he’s “been driving with Uber for 6 months, commuting to Colorado to drive in and around the Front Range. Ridesharing provides an economic and convenient transportation alternative. For me personally, Uber has helped keep me and my family afloat as I make my transition from active duty military back into the civilian job market.”

At launch, Uber is offering discounts to new and existing riders. All riders will be able to take any trip worth up to $20 for just $5 from 7 p.m. Friday to 12 a.m. Monday. First time riders will also be able to receive $15 off their first ride by using the in-app promotional code “ridewyoming.” That promotion is valid through 2020.

Uber is an app that connects people who need a reliable ride with people looking to earn money by driving their car. Founded in 2009, the company operates in more than 500 cities and 70 counties around the world.

The easiest way for riders to determine if there are driver-partners nearby is to simply open the Uber app and see if there are cars available. The app can be downloaded for iOS and Android. For those interested in driving, directions on how to sign up can be found at uber.com/drive.

Not only is Uber reliable and convenient and an easy way for people to make extra money, it is also a safe, alternative form of transportation for people who should not be behind the wheel.

“Uber is another safe ride home for people who have consumed too much alcohol or find themselves too impaired to drive,” said Debbie Taylor, a spokesperson for MADD Wyoming.

Wyoming travelers and residents alike will benefit from the addition of Uber to the state.

“I am very pleased that ridesharing will be available in the state. I’m a big fan of Uber, having used it frequently during visits to LA when my husband was managing editor at the LA Times,” said Cheyenne Mayor Marian Orr. “Ridesharing has become an expected amenity with visitors, and I am sure our guests throughout the year--and especially during Cheyenne Frontier Days--will appreciate having access to services like Uber.”

CHEYENNE LAUNCH EVENT

What: Public celebration of Uber launching in Wyoming

When: Friday, March 3, 7 p.m.

Where: Accomplice Beer Company, 115 W. 15th St., Cheyenne, WY

Who: Uber staff, community leaders