Lyft and Rosemont finalize partnership

Rosemont has finalized a $150,000 deal with Lyft that will allow the ride-sharing company exclusive use of a lot near the Allstate Arena to pick up customers after events.

The partnership will allow for Arena attendees to take advantage of Lyft's transportation services during the venue's entertainment events, including concerts and Chicago Wolves home games.

The one-year agreement will allow Lyft drivers to line up beside the stadium administration building on Lunt Avenue - located north of the stadium and west of Target. The preferred space has room for about 30 vehicles.

"The Allstate Arena is one of the top destinations in the world for entertainment programming and we strive to provide our visitors with a premiere experience," said Allstate Arena Executive Director Patrick Nagle. Designated Lyft drop-off and pickup areas will be located just in front of the North Gate of the arena.

Lyft also will become the strategic partner of the "Responsible Fan of the Night" program during Allstate Arena events, which includes all of the Wolves' regular-season and playoff games. As part of Lyft's commitment to safe rides, fans who pledge to be a designated driver at the Allstate Arena will have the chance to win prizes, such as free swag and upgraded seats.

"Our organization prides itself on the safe atmosphere we foster for everyone," said Chicago Wolves President Mike Gordon. "The Responsible Fan of the Night initiative and Lyft's services will make the gameday experience even better for our fans."

"We're thrilled to be the official transportation partner of Allstate Arena and the Chicago Wolves," said Lyft Midwest General Manager David Katcher.

The deal comes nine months after a Cook County judge threw out a lawsuit filed in March 2016 by Rosemont, the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority and Choose Chicago, the city's convention and tourism bureau, against Lyft and Uber.

The suit argued the ride-sharing services should pay the same $4-per-ride airport departure tax that taxis picking up passengers at O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport pay. The parties that sued share about $20 million a year from the airport fee.

Uber and Lyft said they weren't subject to the tax, arguing ride-share is not defined as livery under state law.