Uber hits the C.O. streets: Ride-sharing service debuts Thursday

Uber gave the mayors of Bend and Redmond a ceremonial first ride on Wednesday and announced it will officially launch the ride-sharing service in Central Oregon on Thursday at 10 a.m.

Here’s the ride-sharing service’s news release announcing the arrival on the High Desert. NewsChannel 21’s AJ. Kato will have more tonight on NewsChannel 21 at Five and Six.

The launch is possible due to the passage of new, for-hire regulations that permit the operation of Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) in the region.

“We’re thrilled to be rolling out in Central Oregon,” said Bryce Bennett, general manager for Uber in Oregon. “If people aren’t yet familiar with the app, I think they’ll find it reliable, convenient and easy to use. Essentially you push a button and get a ride.”

Uber is an app that connects people who need a reliable ride with people looking to earn money by providing transportation in their personal car. Founded in 2009, the company operates in more than 500 cities and 70 counties around the world.

To celebrate the launch, Uber is offering discounts to new and existing riders. All riders will receive 50% off trips for a maximum $20 discount through midnight Sunday. First time riders will also be able to receive $10 off their first ride by using the in-app promotional code “UBERBEND10.” That promotion is valid through July 15 .

“I welcome ridesharing to Central Oregon as another form of convenient transportation for residents and visitors,” said Betsy Littlefield, a communications project manager in Bend and volunteer with the Mt. Bachelor National Ski Patrol who has signed up to drive for Uber . “What makes it so attractive for me is that it provides a flexible opportunity to earn money on my own schedule.”

The easiest way to find a reliable and convenient ride is to simply open the Uber app and see if there are cars available. The app can be downloaded for iOS and Android. For those interested in driving, directions on how to sign up can be found at t.uber.com/central-oregon .

Not only is Uber an easy way for people to make extra money and a convenient way to get around, it is also a safe, alternative form of transportation for people who should not be behind the wheel.

” Uber is another safe transportation option for people who have consumed too much alcohol or find themselves too impaired to drive,” said Janelle Lawrence, executive director for Oregon Impact, a nonprofit organization that holds educational events on impaired and distracted driving throughout the state. “I believe services like Uber help people make better decisions before they get behind the wheel.”

Travelers and residents alike will benefit from the addition of Uber to the state.

“I am very pleased that Uber and other ridesharing services will be available in Central Oregon. I’m a big fan of Uber , having used it frequently during visits to Portland and other parts of the country,” said Bend Mayor Casey Roats. “As Bend has continued to grow, we have heard clearly that ridesharing has become an expected amenity from both residents and visitors. I am sure our guests throughout the year–especially during the spring and summer tourist season–will appreciate having access to services like Uber .”

The Uber operations team will host a free launch celebration open to the public at the Deschutes Brewery and Tasting Room on Simpson Ave. on Thursday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. (details below). Some food and beverage will be provided. Those interested in attending can RSVP at uberlovesbend.splashthat.com .

What : Public celebration of Uber launching in Central Oregon

When : Thursday, May 4 , 6-9 p.m.

Where : Deschutes Brewery and Tasting Room, 901 SW Simpson Ave., Bend

Who : Uber staff, community leaders, riders and drivers

RSVP : uberlovesbend.splashthat.com

Additional community leader statements

City of Redmond

“I am very excited that Uber will now be available in Redmond and the Central Oregon region to both residents and visitors. Ridesharing will also help our local economy by providing opportunities for people to earn extra money and granting better access to our local businesses.”

–George Endicott, Mayor of Redmond

Bend Chamber

“The arrival of rideshare in Central Oregon brings a needed transportation option to Bend. Not only will companies like Uber give visitors another safe option to access our local businesses, rideshare will help with congestion and parking and fit in with our area’s multi-modal transportation plan.”

–Jamie Christman, Executive Vice President, Bend Chamber