Uber operates in more than 300 cities around the world. Does that mean we’ll soon see it in Traverse City, shuttling passengers on wine tours or helping tourists avoid parking headaches during Cherry Festival?
The answer could be yes.
In 2012, Traverse City commissioners amended licensing laws that made it nearly impossible for Uber to hit the road. The old law required each driver to have an expensive taxi license that cost several hundred dollars.
The new law says that for-hire drivers need to have only a limousine license through the State of Michigan. To get a limousine license, drivers need to pass a test and pay a $35 fee.
Commissioners have paved (driving pun) the way for private for-hire driving services in Traverse City. With the services could come increased foot traffic for businesses that depend on tourists, as well as instant income for people with good driving records.