Features
4 Apr 19

Lyft wants to make the City Work

Lyft launched its City Works programme which should improve the urban transportation system with a focus on equity and ecology.

Shortly after having launched its IPO, Lyft has unveiled City Works, a programme targeting not only urban transportation infrastructure, but also aiming to enhance these systems with an important emphasis on equity and ecology. 

In short, City Works has three priorities to enhance local transportation infrastructure and equity and strengthen its ambition for zero carbon rides. 

Equity

The first priority is to provide free and reduced-price transportation to less wealthy citizens. A measure which could counter the critics of Lyft who say it is serving mostly well-educated and affluent riders. Remarkable is the fact that the reduced fares will apply to social workers who work with these underserved residents. 

Optimisation 

Further on, City Works should develop transportation infrastructure with the specific aim of decreasing inequity. Together with local partners Lyft will bring shared scooter and bike services to underserved neighbourhoods where these services aren’t implemented yet. In addition, and with the following target in mind, Lyft will equip its driver centres with EV chargers. 

Decarbonisation

The latter fits in Lyft’s ambitions for a clean energy future. Together with the creation of EV charging stations, Lyft says it will use 100% renewable energy at its facilities, and that the ridehailer will purchase certified carbon offsets. 
50 million

In a nutshell, Lyft’s City Works programme aims to make the City’s transportation system work better, together with the city and local partners. The programme will start in Los Angeles and is planned to expand to other Lyft operated cities, where both local leaders and an advisory council will develop tailor-made solution for each city. Therefore, City Works will receive a yearly investment of $50 million or 1% of Lyft’s profits - whichever is larger. 

Authored by: Fien Van den steen