San Diego’s Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) and the County District Attorney’s office have rolled out a new campaign aimed at tackling the problem of wildcatting at transit centers, including those at the San Ysidro Land Port of Entry and the Otay Mesa Land Port of Entry. Wildcatters, or unregulated ride-share providers, have been known for their aggressive solicitation tactics and lack of legal authorization to operate, which, according to the MTS, poses significant public safety risks and undermines the livelihood of licensed taxi drivers.
Stephen Whitburn, MTS Board Chair and San Diego City Councilmember, District 3, stressed the importance of addressing what he calls an “ongoing problem.” “Wildcatting is unregulated. It’s illegal. And it hurts the taxicab small business owners,” Whitburn explained in a statement obtained by
MTS
. Seeking to protect riders and legal operators alike, MTS and the DA emphasize the potential dangers of these unsanctioned services, including harassment, vandalism, and the lack of safety checks that can lead to passenger endangerment.
San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan pointed out the heightened risks involved when passengers utilize services from these unpermitted drivers. “Accepting rides from un-permitted drivers who operate illegally and are not vetted can put people at risk of becoming the victim of crimes like recruitment for human trafficking, fraud and overcharging,” Stephan told
MTS
. The education campaign against wildcatting, which appears to be a response to a rise in such activities, particularly in new employment areas, is a part of the broader mission to “preventing crime” and ensure community safety.
To improve rider safety, MTS will increase signage around transit centers and coordinate with law enforcement to step up patrols. Notices at pedestrian crossings will also go up in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to inform commuters about their legitimate transportation options. Sean Elo-Rivera, MTS Board Member and San Diego City Council President, District 9, harboring concerns for the well-being of taxi drivers, noted, “Wildcatting activity is threatening their livelihood and the safety of travelers,” according to a statement obtained by
MTS
.
The MTS’s For-Hire Vehicle Administration is responsible for licensing and overseeing for-hire vehicles like taxicabs and charter services, offering safe and reliable travel options to commuters and travelers. As part of the initiative to curb wildcatting, MTS provides alternatives to ensure passengers can find legal and secure transportation, such as MTS buses and trolleys. Riders can obtain route and schedule information through
the MTS website
, the MTS Trip Planner, or by calling their information line for trip planning assistance. The public education on wildcatting, together with enhanced law enforcement, is an attempt to ensure a safer border crossing experience.
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