Need a Ride Home From a Healdsburg Pub? REDCard, Please

Police who crack down on DUIs during holidays in Sonoma County could get some extra help this year from a new program called REDCard.

"There is no excuse to drink and drive anymore,"said LaMarion Spence of Healdsburg, REDCard founder.

REDCard is planning to offer affordable transportation from licensed establishments serving alcoholic beverages to safe lodging within a pre-defined geographic area for a flat $5 fee.

"REDCard integrates local businesses in order reduce the amount of drunk or impaired drivers on local roads," Spence said. "In doing so, REDCard strengthens communities and protects their residents and guests from unnecessary harm."

REDCard will launch this program Dec. 31, New Yearʼs Eve, in Healdsburg as a pilot program while it simultaneously builds the infrastructure for a long-term, national program.

According to Spence, the program will work like this:

"Itʼs Thursday night, or any night, and you did not plan to have more than one glass of wine or beer, but you did," he said. "Actually, you and several of your friends had a great dinner,
and once its time to go home it is clear that you are not best served to drive yourself, nor are your friends.

"But the problem is, there is no train or bus and a taxi is going to cost more than $30," he added. "What now? It's time to call REDCard.

"You, your friend, or the owner of the establishment may call the toll free number 1-855-KALLRED (D), and a car is dispatched immediately to your location," Spence said.

"You climb into the vehicle and hand the driver $5 -- along with a REDCard given to you by the establishment, your company, or another source such as a friend," he added. "The driver
immediately transports you to your residence or place of lodging for only $5 and the REDCard."

Spence said area transportation services, such as   will provide the transport within the city limits from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Spence said the REDCard costs  will be underwritten by three primary sources:
-- Membership

--Sponsorship

-- Community Involvement from schools, nonprofits and/or local government.

"No one will ever be refused a REDCard ride because of an inability to pay," Spence said.

REDCard will offer other services as well, including a special valet service, a premium car service called BLKCard and special arrangements with Healdsburg lodging facilities offer discount hotel rooms for out-of-towners who need a place to stay at the last minute.