Need A Ride?

An interview with our local cab service

When Uber came on the scene in San Francisco less than a decade ago it ushered in a whole new approach to the transportation needs of the citizenry that went beyond the often inefficient and many times unavailable traditional taxicabs.
Few could predict the explosiveness of such an endeavor and these days travelers and those in metro areas who opt to not drive have alternatives to public transportation and cab companies.
Rural areas such as our county, however continue to wrestle with how to widen the transportation alternatives for our residents.
About a year and a half ago Janet Clark launched one option for those who might find themselves in need of getting from one place to another and either have no vehicle, have a vehicle but would prefer not to drive or have a vehicle and truly should not be driving.
JC Subercab has helped folks get to the airport, the store, a doctor appointment  or sometimes just home from an evening of celebration swiftly and safely since opening her doors (car doors that is) and has watched her business grow as folks have become aware of her services.
We caught up with Ms. Clark for a small chat.

N3: When did you start JC SuberCab?
JC: The concept really came together during the summer of 2016.  I really tried to plan everything out before I "launched". However, it's really been a learning process from the first day November 5, 2016.

N3:Why did you start it? What gave you the idea, how did you make the decision to go ahead.
JC: I had the idea of a taxi service about 30 years ago.  I always hoped someone else would start one but....In the summer of 2016 I was listening to a Christian radio station and the guest speaker was urging everyone who had ever had a dream to FINISH IT!!!!    GO AFTER IT!!! THAT'S GOD'S PLAN FOR YOU!!!!! So I just felt it was time for me to be obedient to that calling.
I had also read a transportation research article in the archives of Newaygo County website that stated that Newaygo County is the only county in Michigan that has NO public transportation.  The. Only. One.

N3: What has surprised you most about the business, the people, the work and what kind of things  have you learned?
JC: I thought my time would be spent being everyone's designated driver on Friday and Saturday night.  While true, that's not where most of my business comes from. Most of my business is taking care of the regular folks of Newaygo County.  People need groceries, visit their doctors, meet legal appointments, socialize with friends, and catch a bus or an airplane out of town. I provide that service.

N3: Your favorite thing about what you’re doing.
JC: The best thing is feeling like a rock star when I walk into an establishment.  Another thing I really enjoy is the variety of people I get to meet. Giving folks a helping hand when they need it really makes you feel good, too.  

N3: Future plans?
JC: I see nothing but growth for JC Subercab.  I believe this because the need is so great and isn't going away.  I hope to sub-contract several drivers, too.
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N3: Why should people us JC SuberCab?
JC: Why wouldn't you?  Listen, I've heard getting a drunk driving ticket could cost $10,000.  My fees are usually about $9, 980 less than that. I work hard at being on time and providing good care to my riders.  Why wouldn't you?!