The Princeton Police Department (PPD) announced the return of free nighttime Uber rides in an effort to reduce impaired driving — a program that is the first of its kind in Central New Jersey.
Rides can be worth up to $15. They are available to be redeemed Thursday through Saturday from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. at participating local businesses, which include Ivy Inn, McCarter Theatre Center, and Alchemist & Barrister, among others. Users wishing to use the service can scan a QR code found on posters or on the municipality website, which will automatically apply the discount to the next eligible ride.
The program was originally launched in May of 2023, and provided over 900 safe rides before the funding sourced from business donations dried up in late 2025. In a Dec. 30 social media post, the PPD shared that the initiative was revived thanks to community member donations.
In an email to The Daily Princetonian, Princeton Police Chief Matthew Solovay emphasized the initiative’s unique approach, focusing on prevention rather than solely enforcement.
“While DWI [Driving While Intoxicated] enforcement remains essential, the department sought a proactive solution that could reduce risk before a violation or crash occurred,” Solovay wrote.
As of Dec. 9, the PPD recorded 39 DWI incidents in 2025, surpassing the total number of incidents in 2024.
“We want people to enjoy Princeton responsibly, and we want everyone, residents and visitors alike, to get home safely,” Solovay added.
Solovay noted that the reinstatement is only for the short term, as the PPD has yet to identify a viable source for continued funding.
“We want to continue to be able to do [the program]; however, sustainable funding needs to be identified,” Solovay wrote.
The program will run until the current round of donations is exhausted, he suggested.
Ambre Van de Velde is a News contributor for the ‘Prince.’ She is from Boston and can be reached at av8447[at]princeton.edu.
Nika Schindler is a News contributor for the ‘Prince.’ She is from Woodside, Calif. and can be reached at ns1295[at]princeton.edu.
Please send any corrections to corrections[at]dailyprincetonian.com.
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