SGV Connect 45 – Unions for Ride-Hail Workers and an Update on Via

This week, SGV Connect looks at two issues impacting ride-hail in the San Gabriel Valley.

First, Kris Fortin interviews Mike Long, spokesperson for Mobile Workers Alliance, the umbrella group started by SEIU 721 to organize ride-hail workers. Stories of Uber and Lyft drivers striking and demanding better wages have been hot locally and nationally. Fortin and Long dive into local efforts to improve the salaries and lives for TNC workers.

Next, Damien Newton speaks with Maria Sullivan, the point person for Metro’s contract with Via, a private ride-hail partner. This Spring, Metro launched a Mobility-On-Demand pilot program where Via would operate around three areas, including 10 bus and rail stations. To better reach riders, the subsidized program is now completely free to transit riders who either begin or end their trip at one of the transit stations. More information on the program, how to sign-up, and the thirteen stations served, can be found at the Metro webpage.

In addition, the maps of the three service areas can be found below the podcast.

Coming Next Week: Big news on the next Gold Line Extension…

SGV Connect is supported by Foothill Transit, offering car-free travel throughout the San Gabriel Valley with connections to the new Gold Line Stations across the Foothills and Commuter Express lines traveling into the heart of downtown L.A. To plan your trip, visit Foothill Transit. “Foothill Transit. Going Good Places.”

Catch past episodes of SGV Connect and #DamienTalks on LibSyn, iTunes, Google Play, or Overcast.