Program Details RideSmart by Via

AUGUST 28, 2024 

We write today with more information about UChicago’s new rideshare service for students, RideSmart by Via. Beginning September 1, all enrolled students at the University will have access to free, unlimited rides in shared vans, increasing access to nighttime point-to-point transportation on and around campus. Via rides must begin and end in the service area and are available from 5:00 p.m. - 4:00 a.m. every day; the service area and hours of operation are the same as with the previous rideshare service.

How to Sign Up

  1. Download the RideSmart by Via app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.
  2. Sign up for the service with your UChicago email address. The RideSmart app will confirm your eligibility through SSO verification.
  3. Book your ride.

For more detailed instructions, visit our website or watch this one-minute video.

Program Details

  • Available to actively enrolled UChicago students only.
  • Unlimited free evening & late-night rides.
  • Seven days a week; 5:00 p.m. — 4:00 a.m.
  • RideSmart in an on-demand service.
    • On campus, RideSmart picks up/drops off at designated locations at academic, residential, dining, and student activity buildings.
    • Off campus, RideSmart picks up/drops off anywhere within the service area.
  • To maximize efficiency, RideSmart may pick up and drop off other UChicago students along your ride.
  • The wait time for a van to arrive should not exceed 15 minutes after you book your ride; if it does, an option for a free Lyft ride to your destination will appear in the RideSmart by Via app.
  • Rides must begin and end in the service area.

Ride Safety

  • All vans are co-branded with the RideSmart by Via and UChicago logos, making them easily identifiable. 
  • RideSmart is only available to active, enrolled UChicago students, confirmed through in-app SSO verification.
  • No unscheduled guests are allowed to ride in a RideSmart vehicle. Each student who wants to ride must book a seat individually through the RideSmart app.
  • Drivers are vetted and trained. Drivers will confirm each scheduled rider's name before allowing them to board.
  • Please review RideSmart's code of conduct and community guidelines. 
  • All vans are equipped with cameras for safety.

Note that the Lyft Ride Smart program will remain available to students through August 31, 2024.

For additional information about the RideSmart by Via program, please see the Department of Safety & Security's website. If you have questions, contact bus@uchicago.edu. Happy riding. 

Sincerely,

Eric M. Heath
Associate Vice President for Safety & Security

Michael Hayes
Associate Vice President for Student Life

Related