Burns encourages Greater Johnstown residents to drink responsibly, consider free cab ride program on New Year's Eve

JOHNSTOWN, Dec. 29 – State Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, is encouraging Greater Johnstown residents to drink responsibly on New Year's Eve and to take advantage of free cab rides being offered to residents who may have too much to drink. 

Burns is joining with state Sen. John Wozniak, Cambria County Crimestoppers, Von's United Beverage, Richland Township Fire Department and WJAC-TV to offer the free cab rides to residents who live within a 15-mile radius of Johnstown. 

According to Burns, the Take a Cab program is available to those who are leaving local businesses between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. on New Year's Eve. The ride destination must be to the person's home and not to another party or bar. 

Greater Johnstown residents should call 814-535-4584 between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. when they are ready to go home.

"New Year's Eve is about having fun and toasting to a great new year with friends and family," Burns said. "Drinking responsibly also should be part of the equation. People should consider going out with a designated driver or limiting alcohol consumption for their own safety and the safety of the entire community. This free cab program is a way to offer help to people who find themselves in a position where there is no other responsible way home.

"Drinking and driving do not mix. I encourage all party goers to have a plan that includes fun and safety," he added.