Local Communities Help Commuters Save Fuel
Cities Give Incentives to Carpoolers and Bike Riders
Apr 23, 2009
Cities all over the U.S. want to make sure people don’t drive to work alone and waste energy. So many of them have started a program called Smart Trips. Every city’s program is different. But one thing they all have in common is they encourage walking, biking, car/van pooling, and taking public transportation. Smart Trips in St. Paul, Minnesota even offers a $25 taxi cab or bus coupon to commuters who take advantage of the program and run into an emergency or scheduling conflict. Because of their efforts, the city saw a 33% increase in walking and biking last summer.
How to Save Money by Joining a Carpool:
Join a program like Smart Trips or a similar ride-sharing program in the community. If one doesn’t exist, start a program at the office and use Google Maps or Map Quest to determine a route. Commuters are often surprised at how much money they save and the friendships that form when driving to work with fellow employees.
But sometimes problems do develop between ride sharers. To avoid conflict, set boundaries in the very beginning, including predetermined rules, like no smoking, no eating and no heavy metal music... whatever the group agrees on ahead of time!
How to Save Money Bicycling to Work:
Haven’t been on two wheels lately? Most people over the age of 15 haven’t! But it only takes a short time to get back on the saddle and save money while getting a work-out. First, pick out a suitable bike. Then plan a route. Cyclists who start slowly and ease into this new mode of transportation will have a simpler time adjusting. Just make sure to have alternate plans in place in case of inclement weather. And investing in a quality backpack or saddlebag is also a good idea.
How to Reduce Costs by Taking Public Transportation:
Buying a bus pass will usually save more than individual tickets. Check the bus company’s website ahead of time to plan out routes and schedules. Many cities offer free parking to those who take public transportation regularly.
A lot of communities even offer an online calculator so commuters can determine exactly how much they are saving by not driving alone. Cities and towns across the country are trying to convince commuters who are used to driving by themselves, that they do have alternatives.
People who want to learn about a Smart Trip program in their area, can contact that community’s mass transit authority.
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