$1 taxi surcharge approved by council

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Late-night taxi passengers will soon have to shell out an extra dollar in Austin.

The City Council passed that measure 7-0 on Thursday, in an attempt to help ease the shortage of cabs during high-demand periods.

“We are pleased the Austin City Council has taken steps today to address the shortage of taxicab services during high demand periods, such as Thursday through Saturday nights,” said Edward Kargbo of Yellow Cab Austin.

The initial proposal called for a $2.50 surcharge, but the council approved the $1 per passenger alternative instead. The intent was to give more drivers an incentive to operate from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m.

It is estimated only 61 percent of the city’s cabs are out during those late hours. The hope is to have the new ordinance in effect by South By Southwest, though no specific date was mentioned at the meeting.

City officials said next week’s council meeting should focus on more cab issues, including the number of new cab permits to issue.