CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — This St. Patrick's Day, the Cedar Rapids Police Department is taking proactive measures to encourage responsible celebrations by offering residents $10 Uber vouchers to help prevent drinking and driving. With the festivities anticipated to bring out large crowds, officials are urging locals to plan their transportation options wisely.
According to a spokesperson from the Cedar Rapids Police, "There are plenty of ways to avoid drinking and driving. Designate a driver, stay home, and choose non-alcoholic beverages, these options all work to keep our roads safe." The department has made it easy for residents to access discounted rides by allowing them to scan a QR code through March 18, 2025, which provides the $10 off each ride home.
Meanwhile, Orlando District 5 City Commissioner Shan Rose has also tapped Uber to assist families attending the upcoming graduation ceremony for Jones High School. Unlike previous years, this year's ceremony will be held at the UCF Addition Arena on May 30, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., leading to concerns about the distance for some families. To ease this burden, Rose secured Uber vouchers to help with transportation.
Graduation attendees will benefit from the Uber voucher code JONESGRAD25, which offers $15 off two trips, giving families up to $30 worth of savings total. This voucher is valid exclusively on the day of graduation between 5 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. Each redemption can provide up to $15 off per ride for two trips.
Rose emphasized the importance of accessibility for families during this time, stating on social media, "I want to make sure every family has the opportunity to join this special day and celebrate the students' achievements without the worry of transportation." The announcement has been received positively among parents and guardians concerned about the travel distance to the new venue, especially for those with limited access to transportation.
Both initiatives highlight the growing collaboration between local governments and ride-sharing companies. While Cedar Rapids focuses on safety during celebratory events, Orlando aims to support families during significant milestones. The availability of ride-sharing services helps mitigate concerns about drinking and driving during festivities and provides practical solutions for families with challenges related to transportation logistics.
By providing these vouchers, both city leaders are taking steps to promote safety and accessibility within their communities. Cedar Rapids attempts to curb alcohol-related road incidents during St. Patrick's Day, and Orlando seeks to facilitate attendance for graduation ceremonies - both significant events for residents. It seems clear: with friends, families, and community members taking charge of their celebrations and logistics, these events can be made memorable without compromising safety.