With local police having received several rape reports within the first few weeks of classes, people shouldn’t be walking home alone. Here are the different ways you can get a ride if you can’t find someone to safely walk you home:
CATS Late Night (740-593-4040)
Ohio University has a free bus system that runs from 7 a.m. to 5:20 p.m., Monday through Friday. There is a late night loop that runs from 5:30 p.m. to 3 a.m., Monday through Friday and Saturday, 10 p.m. through 3 a.m. The buses only go to OU buildings. There are multiple loops that can take you around campus wherever you need to go. More information about specific pick-up and drop-off locations can be found here.
CATCAB (740-593-1702)
OU offers a free service for people with limited mobility, whether it's permanent or temporary. The cars are also wheelchair accessible. Proper documentation is required before using the cabs. More information about qualifications and registering can be found here.
Green Cab (740-594-7336)
Green Cab is open 24/7 and is ready to give anyone a ride anywhere they need to go, whether it’s on or off campus. Drivers are often out and about waiting to give people rides home. Rides within residential Athens are $3 per person plus tax. To go farther, like to East State Street, there is a flat fee of $6 plus tax and an additional $3 per person.
TABS Taxi (740-594-8294)
This taxi service is open for rides from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m., Sunday through Wednesday and 7 a.m. to 6 a.m, Thursday through Saturday. There are often drivers waiting on Court Street ready to take people home after a night out.
Lyft
Athens got this ride service last year and there are a good amount of drivers. They always have deals for new riders and frequent riders, so cheap rides anywhere in Athens can become even cheaper. Because it’s through an app, there aren't any awkward moments fumbling through your wallet and hoping you have enough cash. Just download the app, put your credit card info on it and you’re set.
Although other university police departments and departments of public safety offer rides home, the Ohio University Police Department and the Athens Police Department do not. But if you feel uncomfortable with a situation, whether it is happening to you or someone else, you should call either department for help.
To report a crime to OUPD, call 740-593-1911
To report a crime to APD, call 740-593-6606
