Transportation – What Are Our Options?

Last in a five part series

The impact of our carbon dependent transportation system has been well documented. For example "The Geography of Transport Systems" third edition by Dr. Jean-Paul Rodrigue objectively states the various types of air water and noise pollution associated with transportation. 

If individuals knew how much they were spending on transportation and had ready access to alternatives more people would seek to change their habits. Thanks to "Commuter Solutions" the wait is over.

If you drive alone to work or school the "Commute Cost Calculator" available on theCommuter Solutions website is a great tool for assessing your monthly and annual transportation costs and comparing it to the cost of other options. 

Commuter Solutions is an initiative of the Economic Development Council of Seattle King County. "Commuter Solutions works with local public/private partners to: Provide information, technical assistance, and incentives to employers and employees to help reduce the number of vehicles on our roads; develop and implement innovative programs to encourage changes in individual commute behavior; and propose and support policies that offer real solutions to transportation problems and make good business sense."

Are you interested in carpooling or Vanpool? Rideshareonline.com offers a ridematch tool for both options. A short video describes how the program works.

Employer's benefit when they subsidize employees' vanpooling and/or transit costs. "Sharing a ride to work in a carpool, vanpool, or bicycling together is beneficial for commuters and for your company, even if employees use a commuting alternative only one day a week. Once your RideshareOnline.com program is in place, your organization will gain from increased employee productivity, available state and federal employer tax credits, and the opportunity to offer RideshareOnline.com as a low-cost or no-cost employee perk." Commuter Solutions offers support to help employers organize and maintain a commuter program for their company.

What about cycling? There are many benefits associated with cycling to work including Increased physical longevity and health and reduced transportation costs. Communities that invest in making their downtown business sector bike and pedestrian friendly experience economic activity and social vibrancy not possible in an auto dominated environment.

Bicycle Alliance of Washington website has a list of resources on their website from links to various local, state and national bike organizations, obtaining and installing bike lockers at the work place, bike safety tips, safe bike routes to school and nonprofit bike shops that offer free or low cost services and education.

OTHER TOPICS ALREADY COVERED and posted on the Shoreline Green Business Program blog page:
Saving Energy on Lighting
Taking More of the "Waste" Out of Your Waste Stream
Water – Keeping It Clean and Affordable
A Smorgasbord of Energy Savings Programs