The General Services Administration (GSA) recently awarded a rideshare blanket purchase agreement to Uber intended to reduce federal travel costs and enhance the overall travel experience for federal workers. This initiative stems from GSA’s OneGov program, which aims to leverage the federal government’s purchasing power to negotiate better pricing for products and services.
Given the growing need for effective transportation solutions for federal employees and military personnel, this partnership is significant, particularly as many employees return to offices. Acting GSA Administrator Stephen Ehikian emphasized the agreement’s contribution to a more efficient workplace by providing easy and reliable transportation options.
This new deal is an extension of GSA’s previous agreements with Uber and Lyft established in 2020 and subsequently recompeted last year. Uber has also collaborated with major federal entities, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs, to facilitate rideshare services for veterans needing transportation for medical appointments.
Uber’s President, Andrew Macdonald, stated that this renewed partnership simplifies travel and transportation for government agencies, aiming for a future enriched with integrated mobility solutions that improve government service delivery. The agreement includes access for government contractors, allowing them to utilize Uber’s services under specific guidance.
Through the Uber for Business profile, federal employees and contractors can access rideshare services in over 15,000 cities across 70 countries. This platform is versatile, accommodating unique use cases like transportation for disaster relief efforts, and offering high-capacity vehicles for agency-specific transportation needs.
Overall, GSA and Uber intend to create a streamlined, cost-effective transportation model for the federal workforce, ultimately benefiting operational efficiency across various government functions.