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Longtime Taxi Service In Westchester Postpones Closure After Support From Community (Update)

A longtime Westchester taxi service that was set to close at the end of the month has postponed its shutdown in hopes of finding a long-term solution to keep the business running, officials announced. 

Central Taxi of Scarsdale. 

Central Taxi of Scarsdale. 

Photo Credit: Google Maps street view

Central Taxi of Scarsdale, which serves Greenburgh, Hartsdale, Edgemont, Ardsley, and other areas, had planned to close on Friday, Feb. 28 due to financial struggles but will now remain open into March, according to Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner. 

The company’s temporary reprieve was made possible due to overwhelming community support and efforts to explore alternative business models, Feiner said on Saturday, Feb. 22.

According to Central Taxi manager Peter Blier, the company’s owner has agreed to pay an insurance down payment, allowing the service to continue operations for now while discussions take place on potential funding options or restructuring ideas.

“It’s not a big window, but a necessary one,” Blier said, acknowledging that the company is still at risk of shutting down if a long-term solution is not found. 

One possible idea being considered is the creation of a taxi co-op, where drivers would own and operate the business collectively.

Feiner has encouraged residents to reach out with suggestions if they have any. 

According to Feiner, many area residents, particularly parents, seniors, and caregivers, depend on Central Taxi for safe, reliable transportation.  

The company currently serves over 200 people a day, providing fixed pricing, group rides, and vetted local drivers who are well-known to the community, which Blier says is a key reason why many parents and seniors rely on them.  

Although it has become a trusted fixture over the years, more modern services like Uber or Lyft have been eating into the service's business, according to Feiner. 

This continues to be a developing story. Check back to Daily Voice for updates. 

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