Contacts:
Doxie McCoy (EOM) (202) 727-9691
Neville Waters (DCTC) (202) 645-6018
(Washington, DC)–Today, Mayor Vincent C. Gray and DC Taxicab Commission (DCTC) Chairman Ron M. Linton introduced a vehicle exhibit at the Verizon Center to display four proposed color schemes for the District’s taxicab fleet. The exhibit is the next step in moving towards a standardized uniform color scheme for the DC taxicab industry–a critical aspect in the implementation of upgrades to the industry mandated by the Taxicab Modernization Act.
Additional proposed color schemes will be posted on the DCTC website to generate further public feedback. The responses will be incorporated in the decision-making process along with comments from an upcoming public hearing as well as meetings with DC taxicab owners and operators. Final recommendations are expected by the spring of 2013.
“I’m delighted to open these proposed color schemes for public feedback, because it represents another step forward in modernizing our taxicab industry,” said Mayor Gray. “We intend for DC to establish an identity and image that will set a new standard for public vehicles for hire and will help improve enforcement to prevent illegal vehicle service by creating a more recognizable DC taxicab.”
The vehicles that have been wrapped in the proposed colors have been loaned to DCTC by DARCARS (Toyota Camry), Ford (C-Max), Vehicle Production Group (CNG MV1) and Clean Energy and its subsidiary BAF Technologies (CNG Ford Transit Connect). The Toyota Camry and Ford C-Max are hybrids and the MV1 and Transit Connect run on clean natural gas – representing another aspect of the Mayor’s efforts to modernize the taxicab industry by increasing the numbers of fuel-efficient and low-carbon-emitting vehicles.
The vehicles will remain on display at the Verizon Center through January 7, 2013, when the exhibit will relocate to Union Station. In February, the vehicles will make an appearance at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center during the annual Washington Auto Show. You can follow the reaction to the proposed color schemes on Twitter by using the hashtag #votedctaxi.
“This is an exciting moment for the DC taxicab industry. The implementation of the uniform color along with other upgrades to the new dome light and driver training will make a significant difference to local service operations and enforcement capability,” said DCTC Chairman Ron M. Linton.
DCTC is the regulatory agency responsible for finding the appropriate balance between a fair charge to the passenger and a fair return to the driver. DCTC ensures that drivers and vehicles operate safely within the laws of the District of Columbia with the objective of providing residents and visitors with a safe, comfortable, efficient and affordable transportation experience. DCTC is required by law to ensure a viable and economically sound industry within a system that is fair and transparent and allows for technological advancements.
For more information, visit dctaxi.dc.gov, or call the main number at (855) 484-4966.