HOBOKEN REIGNS IN ILLEGAL TAXI OPERATIONS
"My Administration is taking taxi and limousine safety issues very seriously," Mayor Dawn Zimmer said.
Code enforcement officers have already issued over $60,000 in summonses to illegally-operating taxi services. In addition to scheduled inspections, spot checks for proper documentation and vehicle condition are now regularly conducted.
The relocation of the taxi stand at Hoboken Terminal combined with a dispatcher posted during peak periods has improved organization and dramatically reduced illegal and inappropriate haggling. City code states that the first fare has a right to refuse additional passengers.
These increased enforcement efforts contributed to the recent arrest of an illegally-operating driver by the Hoboken Police Department. The driver had a suspended license, four warrants out for his arrest, and was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. Due to this and other events, the City has been cooperating with higher level agencies to assist in expanded enforcement efforts.
"Out of town operations that had been ignoring our rules are now thinking twice before driving on our streets," Department of Transportation and Parking Director Ian Sacs said.
Residents are reminded that hailing a licensed Hoboken taxi is perfectly legal anywhere in the City. All licensed taxis bear a shield and number on both front doors of the car. Despite the City's efforts to crack down on unlicensed operations, residents are advised that riding in unlicensed vehicles not only poses a safety risk, but also harms legally-operating Hoboken-based taxi businesses.
Residents who suspect a violation or have a concern about a taxi should call the Taxi Division at 201-216-1090 or email taxi@hobokennj.org and provide the number in the shield on the door.
Residents can get important updates from the Department of Transportation and Parking by following the department's twitter account: http://twitter.com/hobokentap. ◦
