Tuscaloosa needs ridesharing. And we need it in a safe, legal, and accountable way.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft connect students to local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. They provide a safe and on-demand transportation option at all times of day. They have been proven to reduce DUI-related arrests in mid-sized cities with universities - nearly 18% in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. In addition to keeping citizens safe, ridesharing services spur growth and development through new jobs and revenue.

UA students have made it clear that they want ridesharing. In a survey conducted by UA's Student Government Association partnered with the Office of Institutional Research and Assessment, 80.9% of students surveyed said they would "use a ridesharing system like Uber or Lyft if it came to Tuscaloosa." In addition, 65% of all surveyed students would use the service at least two days per week.

Ridesharing became legal in Mobile, Alabama this past summer and spread to Mountain Brook, Trussville, Homewood, Birmingham, and Montgomery throughout the fall. The legal precedent in this state is clear. The Tuscaloosa City Council has an obligation to provide students and citizens with safe and efficient rides.

Sign this petition. Tell the City Council that Tuscaloosa needs ridesharing, and that we support their efforts to ensure it operates in a safe and reliable way.