Amid a changing transportation landscape, new Taxi Zones aim to make it easier to flag a cab - or drive one - in downtown Grand Rapids.
The five city hubs launched this week.
Two zones - one in front of DeVos Place and the second near Founders Brewing Company - will be open around the clock.
Three additional zones located near Rosa Parks Circle, the Heartside Arena District and JW Marriott hotel will operate from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. daily.
The idea came alongside city taxicab reforms introduced in April and approved in May, following recommendations of a transportation steering committee created last year.
Officials say the reforms help create a "more fair" market by clearing certain regulatory barriers to entry for entrepreneurs and agencies alike.
The hubs are meant to make cabs more accessible, visible and safe for visitors, residents and drivers.
