How to Promote Carpooling

Carpooling is the most popular alternate mode. About 17% or about 250,000 commuters carpool in the Valley.

Who Should I Target for Carpooling?

• Just about everyone. It only takes 2 people to carpool, which is why it is easier to form than any other alternate mode.
• Younger (35 yrs for CP’er vs. 40 yrs. For drive alones)
• Short or long distance commutes. It doesn’t really matter with a carpool.
• Employees with generally “regular work hours.” They can be somewhat flexible, with one carpool partner if they can agree on flexibility.

What Are the Best Incentives for Carpooling?

• Money, a monthly subsidy is always the best motivator.
• The opportunity to win money or prizes in monthly drawings.
• Preferential or special Parking privileges; both close to the door and or covered parking.
• Recognition by providing a Commuter Club Card.
• Save time - access to the HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lane.
• Saving money and reducing wear and tear on a vehicle.

What Are the Best Tactics to Market Carpooling?

• Develop a promotion to promote matching up carpoolers with www.ShareTheRide.com. This new online rideshare matching system has the following benefits:
• Employees can log on and get immediate matches online 24 hours a day seven days a week. They can email potential partners a pre-written email message instantly without having to make a phone call.
• Employees can choose to match “within the company only” or “a regional match” if they don’t find anyone in their company.
• You, as a TC, can register and use the system to sign up employees or download reports for TRP documentation.
• You can customize the system so your employees get a welcome email with YOUR COMPANY INCENTIVES LISTED, as well as your TC contact information.
• Hold a “carpool /vanpool match party” where you ask employees to sit and chat with others who live in the same area to make arrangements. Have food and a PC set-up to provide a demonstration to show how easy it is to use www.ShareTheRide.com.
• Advertise the “carpool incentives you offer!”