40°F
weather icon Cloudy

Companies, taxi drivers see validation in February results

February operating results for Las Vegas taxi companies provided ammunition for both sides in the ongoing debate about the condition of the industry.

The number of trips driven with paying passengers hit 2.2 million during the month, 10 percent higher than February of last year, according to the Nevada Taxicab Authority. At the same time, total revenues where up 17.3 percent to $31.8 million, which includes only what is collected through the meter and not other revenue sources such as advertising.

Although the results were aided by the extra day for the Leap Year, cab company owners contended that they primarily reflect growing demand. As a result, the new medallions created last year and the extended hours allowed on some existing ones had been successfully absorbed, according to the companies.

A medallion is an operating permit that each cab must carry while in service. However, drivers pointed to the 2 percent drop in the number of trips per shift and the revenue increase of only 4.5 percent per shift as indicators that their incomes have been diluted by the new medallions.

This has become the fault line when companies request temporary medallions for major events; the companies say they need the medallions to provide good service, while drivers argue that this would further reduce their incomes.

The issue has come to a head at the last two authority meetings.

Contact reporter Tim O'Reiley at toreiley@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-5290.

THE LATEST
Off-Strip casino-hotel now charges for parking

The hotel does not have parking gates set up at the entrance of the garage, though the new parking fees are enforced 24/7.

 
Las Vegas tourist attraction announces layoffs

Area15 said the company has enacted a strategic restructuring to “address evolving conditions in the marketplace.”

 
Grand Prix Plaza 2025 experiences revealed

If attending the Las Vegas Grand Prix at the Las Vegas Grand Prix pit building is not in your budget, next year the space will be open to the public for various experiences.