Uber enters Sisters market

Uber has come to Sisters and Central Oregon. Technically, the service is available 24/7, but there may be times for the first few months when a rider has difficulty hailing a car while the driver supply is being built up in Sisters.

"It should be less difficult to hail an Uber to and from major events, as we will make sure drivers are informed about the expected higher demand," said Jon Isaacs, the Oregon public affairs manager for Uber. "We just created a unique discount code for new users at the rodeo - SistersRodeo. This code will get a new Uber user $10 off their first trip."

To ride with Uber, download the Uber app onto a mobile phone, set up an account with a credit or debit card, enter a destination, and push the request button.

"It really is as simple as push a button, get a ride," explained Isaacs.

There are currently more than 1,000 Uber drivers in the Central Oregon region, which includes Bend, Redmond, Sisters, and the surrounding area. Fares can vary from different locations, but fares are disclosed up front, so riders have the opportunity to agree to the fare cost before requesting a ride to and from any location in Central Oregon.

To apply, visit Uber's website, http://www.uber.com. To qualify to drive, an individual needs to have a clean modern vehicle, proof of driver's license and vehicle insurance, and be willing to go through a background safety screening. The approval process takes about a week.

"We couldn't be more excited to offer Uber service to Central Oregon riders and the opportunity to earn money by driving for Uber in Central Oregon," said Isaacs. "The mayors, city councils, and staffs of Bend, Redmond, Sisters, and Madras should all be commended for the work they did to establish consistent, modern local laws that allow ride sharing to operate seamlessly between the cities in the region."

Ride sharing has proven in other communities to provide a convenient option for people traveling within and between cities who don't want to have to worry about things like parking or navigating heavy traffic. It is also a safe ride home after a night of partying.

"Uber will always be available for people who need a safe ride late at night or who want to spend an evening out with friends and family. We celebrate the cities where we operate and plan on being a community partner for years to come," said Isaacs.