RideSmart by Via Program Update

NOVEMBER 14, 2024

To: Chicago-area students
Subject: RideSmart by Via Program Update

Dear Chicago-area students,

We write to inform you of some adjustments to the RideSmart by Via program to help ensure its continued success and long-term viability.

Since launching in September, the positive impact and popularity of the Via program for students have been well above expectations. It has received overwhelmingly positive feedback for offering unlimited rides during evening and nighttime hours, with high satisfaction among riders.

Unfortunately, we have learned that a significant number of riders are requesting rides and adding multiple guests in order to get Lyft rides, or cancelling booking requests in quick succession until they get the Lyft option when wait times are low. These Lyft rides are intended only as a backup option to limit wait times. The misuse of the Lyft option incurs unnecessary costs, and if left unchecked will prevent the Via program from being sustainable.

Effective beginning today, November 14, the Via program’s guest policy will be revised to allow students to request a ride for themselves plus one guest. Our expectation is that except in rare cases when someone is unable to use the Via app, each student will make their own reservation. This update will support the Via program’s viability for the benefit of all students. Via will continue to provide unlimited rides, with the same service hours and geography as before.

Please note that the University can detect misuses of the Via system. Misuse of the system could lead to the suspension of individual student accounts, and further changes to the program.

We will continue to seek ways of making Via program responsive to student needs. Thank you for working with us to maintain an effective system that works for all.

Sincerely,

Eric M. Heath, Associate Vice President for Safety & Security

Michael Hayes, Interim Dean of Students in the University