Notice of Taxicab Rate Review and Request for Public Comment
To All Interested Parties:
On February 23, 2016, the Philadelphia Parking Authority Board approved, through oral resolution, the recommendation of the Taxicab and Limousine Division (“TLD”) to reopen a limited rate review investigation (Download TLD Recommendation “Exhibit A”). The TLD’s request was based partly upon a petition that was filed on Docket No. P-16-01-03 by Danielle Friedman, Esq. on behalf of certified taxicab driver Khalid Alvi seeking a new proposed flat rate in the core area of the City during certain hours and days of the week (Download Petition “Exhibit B”).
In addition to the attached Petition, the TLD also recommended the reopening of a rate review because of the on-going significant decreases in gasoline prices, because of repeated requests to review the current boundaries of the Airport-Center City flat rate zone and because of numerous complaints from industry members concerning the economic strain on the taxicab industry as a result of loss in market share due to alternative for-hire transportation services now being provided in Philadelphia.
Therefore, the TLD seeks information and comment from the public at large and the industry concerning the reopening of a rate review limited to the following:
(1) A flat rate trip in the core of the City as proposed in the Petition;
(2) A review of the current method for determining a fuel surcharge; and
(3) The boundaries outlined in the current taxicab tariff for flat rate trips between the “Center City Zone” and the Philadelphia International Airport.
Interested parties are invited to submit written comments by April 8, 2016 to the attention of Christine A. Kirlin, Esq., Administrative Counsel, at [email protected] or by mail: Philadelphia Parking Authority, Taxicab and Limousine Division, 2415 S. Swanson Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148-4113.
During this comment period, the TLD will also begin to conduct its own investigation concerning the aforementioned items of this rate review. After the TLD’s initial investigation is concluded and upon review of all received written comments, the TLD may hold a public meeting to take further comment on any initial findings.
We very much appreciate your input concerning this matter.
James R. Ney, Director
Taxicab & Limousine Division
Philadelphia Parking Authority
2415 S. Swanson Street
Philadelphia, PA 19148
T 215-683-9417
F 215-683-9437
E-Mail [email protected]