Taxi service closes indefinitely due to lack of insurance

HOUGHTON / HANCOCK — A core transportation service in the Keweenaw has been closed, leaving locals searching for other transit options. ABC 10’s Amanda L’Esperance has more.

The Keweenaw Community relies heavily on public transportation to get from place to place. With the area’s main cab service closed indefinitely, we take a look at what other options there are for transportation in the area.

Neil’s Taxi recently closed due to a lack of current insurance on their cabs. All they need to do to get back up and running is to provide current proof of insurance on all cabs in their fleet. However, there has been no word from the company regarding re–opening.

Both Houghton and Hancock have transit buses, but hours of operation are limited on city transportation.

Houghton City Manager Eric Waara said, “We’ve had a lot of people calling, looking for rides outside of our core, normal operating hours right now. So, we’re investigating where the market is going to be for possibly expanding our service hours.”

Besides Houghton and Hancock transit, the options are limited for cab service outside of the cities. Ss Taxi runs out of Calumet, but doesn’t have the city cab availability that Neil’s did. Copper Country Limo is another option, but their main business is airport transit.

Hancock City Manager Glenn Anderson said, “Other than that, the options currently are limited. We’re waiting to see if the owner decides to re–open. And of course if he does not, presumably, we can find some other company to provide taxi service to the Houghton/ Keweenaw County area. ”

With New Years Eve coming up, the need for late night transportation is high. It’s recommended that those planning on staying out late find carpools or arrange a ride ahead of time.