For those late nights on or off the University of Oregon campus, Safe Ride and Designated Driver Shuttle, both provide free transportation for students, faculty and staff.
These programs are funded by the ASUO, and ensure that safety continues to be a primary focus at the UO. Both programs believe they have a duty to uphold their mission of providing free and comfortable services for any student.
“Making students feel like they have the option to stay at the library longer or hang out at a friend’s house until it’s late without the concern of being in danger while walking home is definitely a bonus,” DDS employee Krissy Craig said.
Safe Ride operates four minivans, which serves around 60 people per night. Safe Ride is also a member of the UO’s Alliance for Sexual Assault Prevention. These transportation services cater to a large number of individuals on a daily basis, therefore calling in advance is in your best interest.
Wait times may exist, as sophomore UO student Victoria Robitaille experienced.
“I’ve tried using safe ride but they are always busy with a wait time of at least four hours,” Robitaille said.
DDS hopes to protect fellow students from drinking irresponsibly and promote alcohol awareness on campus.
“We simply look for students who will be responsible, attentive and enthusiastic about the work that we do,” said Lorin Anderberg, director of DDS. “We work really late hours so it is important that our staff is able to remain nimble and prepared throughout the night.”
Like any other college town, Eugene must be taken seriously after dark. Being proactive and smart with your choices is imperative.
“No one should have to walk home alone or feel unsafe in their community, especially at night,” Anderberg said. “There is a sense of danger that comes with nightfall. The idea of increased risk of violence, getting lost or experiencing reckless driving that can happen in any town, particularly after dark.”
Robitaille encourages students to “always walk in groups, avoid alleys, parks and the cemetery and if possible, always walk along brightly lit paths, but most importantly never walk home alone.”
You also can use the EMX buses for free or one of the many cab companies Eugene has to offer for late night student pick-ups. The fee is relatively inexpensive, and cabs run and provide service around the clock.
Safe Ride operates Sunday through Thursday from 6 p.m-12 a.m., and Friday-Saturday 6 p.m.-2 a.m. Call Safe Ride at (541) 346-RIDE, extension 2.
DDS is open every night from 10 p.m.-2:30 p.m., and can be contacted at (541) 346-0442, extension 1.
If you are in danger, please call 911. The University of Oregon Police non-emergency line is (541) 346-2919.