The University of California San Diego and Lyft, the fastest growing rideshare company in the U.S., have forged a partnership aimed at developing innovative commuter solutions to meet the university’s evolving transportation needs.

UC San Diego is the first university in the nation to engage in a comprehensive partnership with Lyft. Since launching recently, UC San Diego and Lyft have implemented programs designed to improve access to the campus and medical centers, increase safety, reduce transportation costs, and support university programs, and simplify business operations.

Through the partnership, the campus community has access to UC San Diego-specific programs including alternative commuter options, safe rides for students, patient transport, designated pick-up and drop-off locations, direct billing for business travel, and ride credits for certain university-sponsored events.

”We are pleased to announce this comprehensive partnership with Lyft, which will benefit our entire campus community,” said UC San Diego Vice Chancellor and Chief Financial Officer Pierre Ouillet. “Partnering with Lyft in this way will allow us to offer our students, faculty, staff, patients and campus friends more streamlined access to Lyft as a cost-effective alternative transportation option to access campus and our healthcare facilities.”

UC San Diego and Lyft will continue to innovate, develop and roll-out programs that enhance the campus experience.

“We are excited to bring this major partnership with UC San Diego to life and work together to develop programs that make transportation more accessible and affordable,” said Lyft San Diego Market Manager Hao Meng. “Improving people’s lives with the world’s best transportation is at the core of our business, and we look forward to working alongside UC San Diego to meet its needs.”

Find more information about Lyft services for the UC San Diego community here.