TLC COMMISSIONERS UNANIMOUSLY APPROVE TAXI FARE ADJUSTMENT AND SERVICE IMPROVEMENTS PLAN

New Fare Formula to Take Effect on Monday, May 3, 2004

The New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) today unanimously approved a proposed fare adjustment, as well as a package of service improvements designed to enhance the taxi riding experience. The new fare formula will be in effect as of 12:01 a.m. Monday, May 3, 2004.

"I believe the TLC's decision today maintains a critical balance between the needs of the riding public, the drivers and the health and vitality of the taxicab industry as a whole," said TLC Commissioner/Chair Matthew W. Daus. "Most importantly, it provides a livable wage for drivers while ensuring the needed level of service to the public."

The fare adjustment would be calculated as follows:

The service improvement package, which was also unanimously approved by the TLC’s Board of Commissioners, includes the following:

• Acceptance of Credit/Debit Cards for payment in all medallion taxicabs as of November 1, 2005.

• Group Ride Stands: The TLC will experiment with and establish a series of ride sites throughout the city, where taxicab riders going to common destinations would pay less and drivers would earn more per trip.

• Better Partitions: All taxicabs will be equipped, as of November 1, 2005, with scratch free and resistant partitions, allowing passengers to more clearly see the driver's license and further enhance roadway visibility;

• Vehicle Locator Technology: Medallion taxicabs will be equipped with technology that, it is anticipated, will allow for enhanced communications with drivers, expedite the return of lost property, facilitate the collection of copious data on taxicab movement and traffic patterns. It would also offer riders a Passenger Information Monitor screen that would let them follow their trip progress. This technology would be implemented as of November 1, 2005.