News and Articles

Santa Fe– June 13, 2007 – The Santa Fe County DWI Programhas partnered with Capital City Cab in order to offer FREE chauffer and designated driver services within the Santa Fe City limits on Friday and Saturday nights from 5:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. The pilot project will run Friday, June 15, thru Saturday, September 15, 2007 at which time it will be evaluated to determine if it has reduced the incidence of DWI and DWI crashes in Santa Fe County. If the outcome is positive, the program will be implemented in the fall and a nominal fee will be charged per person per trip.

Reservations for free, safe transportation from any residence to any location or from any location to a residence for individuals and groups within the Santa Fe City limits must be made through the CADDyHotline at 995-9528. Reservations can be made any time.  (Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.) Riders will not be transported from one place of business to another.

The main goals of this project are to: 1) Change the culture around alcohol – to promote responsible drinking and planning ahead; 2) Serve as a true designated driver program – that role is often filled by the individual in the group that has had the least to drink; and 3) Raise public awareness around the issue of DWI and reinforce that bartenders and liquor establishments take their responsibilities seriously. Some of the establishments that have partnered with the Santa Fe County DWI Program in implementing this pilot project include; Applebee’s, Catamount, Cheeks/CK’s, Del Charro, El Paseo, Maria’s, Olive Garden, Outback, Rocky’s, and Tomasita’s.  

GrantCountyhas implemented a similar program - “Corre Cantinas” – and has seen a 30% reduction in DWI arrests in the last year. “This is another huge step towards DWI prevention and safety” said Valerie Espinosa, Santa Fe County Clerk and DWI Planning Council Member, “With this mechanism in place there should be no excuses. When you drink and drive you endanger your loved ones, my loved ones, the citizens and children of our state. I’m joining the fight by participating in the CADDy and I encourage residents to utilize this vital service. Let’s take responsibility and show respect for one another.” She will be the first CADDy customer.

###

Contact: Stephen Ulibarri, Public Information Officer (505) 986-6353/795-0828; Becky Beardsley, DWI Program Director (505) 490-1732