Miami-Dade County's Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) has earned national acclaim from the National Association of Counties (NACo) for its measures protecting rideshare consumers. The department's program, aimed at unlicensed for-hire transportation companies that prey on tourists at key spots like Miami International Airport and PortMiami, has led to this recognition. By forging interlocal agreements among the county and local municipalities, DTPW has empowered local law enforcement to utilize county rules when addressing for-hire regulations in their jurisdictions.
"I am incredibly proud that Miami-Dade County has been recognized for our leadership in protecting rideshare passengers,” Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava stated. These remarks highlight the collective effort and dedication of the DTPW staff, whose work at transport hubs and tourist destinations is critical for passenger safety. She continued, “This recognition is a direct result of the dedication, expertise, and teamwork of our Department of Transportation and Public Works staff, who work tirelessly to keep residents and visitors safe at our airports, seaport, and tourist destinations. Their commitment to excellence is a shining example of how our County team delivers results that truly matter for the people we serve," as noted by the county's website.
Complaints regarding unlicensed rideshare operations had surged, prompting the Passenger Transportation Regulatory Division (PTRD) of DTPW to take action. The response included not only establishing cooperative agreements but also developing a training program for local police officers. In a concerted push since 2018, over 258 officers have participated in 23 training seminars, equipping them with a uniform enforcement strategy throughout the county. The outcome has been notable, with more than 185 joint enforcement operations and the impoundment of over 447 unlawful vehicles, as reported by the Miami-Dade government website.
"This NACo recognition reflects our commitment to innovation, excellence, and public service, and we will continue to push the boundaries to ensure our community remains a leader in effective and efficient governance," DTPW Director and CEO Stacy L. Miller, P.E., revealed. Through partnerships with local law enforcement agencies, they have conducted 92 joint operations since 2020, leading to the seizure of 293 unauthorized vehicles, ensuring safer transport for both residents and visitors, according to the same news release.
NACo represents county interests nationwide, shaping federally-mandated policies, and enhancing the integration of America’s counties into the larger governmental framework. As an organization with a membership extending into the thousands of county-elected and professional officials, NACo is uniquely positioned to lead dialogues, promote learning, and advocate on behalf of county-strong initiatives for a more robust America.
