News alert: Uber officially launches in BR

Rideshare service company Uber has officially launched its UberX service in Baton Rouge, a company spokesperson confirms to Daily Report. LSU football coach Les Miles is among the first to use the service in Baton Rouge, serving as the company’s “Rider Zero” in the market. Miles sent out a Tweet earlier today welcoming the company to Baton Rouge, saying it’s a “great new service” for the city. Uber has outlined some service details and sign-up info in a blog post this afternoon, saying fares for the first two weeks of service will be $5. “If you don’t see uberX at first, don’t worry! Since Uber is still in testing phase, there may be times when availability is limited,” the blog post reads. “Just refresh your Uber app again after a few minutes to request a ride and you’ll be on your way. Uber’s most reliable coverage in your area can be found [on its website], but will be rapidly expanding around your city.” The launch comes a little more than two weeks after the Metro Council OK’d an ordinance welcoming ridesharing companies to the city and making it easier for them to begin operations here. Read Daily Report PM today for more on this story. —Steve Sanoski