September 2015

Putting Customers First

The standard level of performance that is expected from the vehicle-for-hire industry must be reflected in how drivers treat all passengers and how companies manage their business relationships with drivers. My expectation is that the DC Taxicab Commission will be held just as accountable in putting our customers first. 



Town Hall Town Meeting 

Representatives of the DC Taxicab Commission including Acting Chairman Ernest Chrappah; Chief Enforcement Officer Dennis Starks; and Public Information Officer Neville Waters participated in a town hall-style meeting with taxicab drivers on August 22. The session provided an opportunity for give-and-take feedback to gain a better understanding about the evolving vehicle-for-hire industry. The results of this gathering enabled facts to be shared to dispel myths and rumors so drivers can be equipped with the means to compete.









Transport DC Expansion Grants

The  DC Taxicab Commission has awarded $630,996 in grants as of September 8 to District taxicab operators through the Transport DC Expansion Grants Program. With a balance of $119,004 remaining, applications are still being accepted. The results of the program are:
  • 20 grants of $7,500 with a matching $5,000 grant from Mobility Ventures towards the purchase of a discounted priced MV-1 wheelchair accessible vehicle - pictured above - enabled the MV-1 to be acquired for $12,500
  • 7 grants of $7,500 to obtain a wheelchair accessible vehicle
  • 76 grants of $2,500 to offset the rental of a wheelchair accessible vehicle
  • 2 training grants were given to provide free disability sensitivity and vehicle operation training to any DC taxi driver

Information about the grant submission process is available here.

Panel on Industry

The Panel on Industry Report has been completed with findings and recommendations pertaining to issuing H-tags. The Panel recommended offering  191 H-tags based on the following priorities:

1) drivers who gave up tags in the 24 month period ending on July 6, 2009 when the moratorium was instituted
2) drivers who completed UDC training classes during the same 24 month period
3) any eligible vehicle owners

A market study would be undertaken every 2 years to determine the appropriate number of taxicabs needed to serve the District. 

The Chairman of the Panel did offer the opinion that returning to an open licensing policy, which existed prior to the moratorium, could be more competitive with private sedans and the marketplace would eventually eliminate those who cannot compete.
The complete report is available here for public review .
Tell Us What You Think

The DC Taxicab Commission has incorporated a public engagement portal on the agency website to encourage feedback and allow for anyone to offer suggestions, comments and ideas on various topics that impact the vehicle-for-hire industry. So try it and... Tell Us What You Think.

DC Taxicab Commission 
2235 Shannon Place, SE,  Washington, DC 20020
202.645.6018