February 22 – The popular ride-share service Uber has arrived in Decatur.

Uber officials have held office hours at the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel this week to educate potential drivers or riders.

Uber reps released a statement this morning. “Uber’s launch today brings ridesharing to thousands of Decatur residents, who now have access to a smarter and more affordable way to get around town. In cities around the world ridesharing has helped reduce drunk driving and expand flexible working opportunities. We’re thrilled to be in Decatur and look forward to the benefits ridesharing can bring to the community,” said Marco McCottry, General Manager of Uber in Illinois and Indiana.

Decatur Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe says the city will benefit from the service.

“It’s a quality of life issue,” Moore Wolfe says. “You’ve got your safety factor, but it is something young professionals are looking for when they come to town. I know when my college kids come home to visit they would really like to have an Uber service because otherwise someone has to come pick them up.”

Moore Wolfe says the service is needed, especially for residents who drink alcohol and want to return home.

To celebrate the launch, Uber is offering two free rides to Decatur residents up to $10. Users can enter promo code DECATUR into their Uber app to redeem the free rides beginning at 9 AM on February 22 through midnight on February 26.