Uber to launch Thursday in Shreveport

Uber announced Wednesday that it will begin service in Shreveport at noon Thursday, Feb. 15.

“Starting tomorrow, Shreveport residents will have access to reliable rides and flexible work opportunities at the push of a button,” said David Brightman, general manager of Uber Louisiana, in a news release. “We are thrilled to bring Uber to the Shreveport community and appreciate the hard work of Mayor Tyler, Councilmember Bowman, and the entire Shreveport City Council, who paved the way for this launch."

City officials approved the ride-hailing company's application to operate Feb. 1.

Lyft, a competitor to Uber, began service in Shreveport Oct. 13.

Both companies had objected to a city ordinance that they said discouraged ride-hailing companies. The Shreveport City Council removed that language in September.

Uber still faces state-wide barriers to operation, the company said.

"Access to safe rides and flexible earning opportunities shouldn’t stop at city limits, which is why it’s time for the Louisiana Legislature to pass one clear set of rules for ridesharing throughout the state,” the company said.

Uber has a presence in more than 600 cities in 78 countries.