Contact:

Susan Tierney Public Information Officer 602-262-7433

Tara La Bouff R&R Partners 480.317.6064

Carpoolers, Bus Riders, Telecommuters Driving Down Pollution

Valley Metro Survey Reveals Why Commute Trips Are Shared

PHOENIX (Oct. 29, 2007) – More Valley commuters are turning to carpools, riding the express bus and telecommuting this year, while the number of residents who drive alone decreased to its lowest level since the year 2000.

This increased number of people who don’t drive alone — 43 percent of all employed — is helping reduce daily pollution by more than 292,000 pounds (146 tons) and keeping 8.6 million miles from being driven every day.

“Commuters who choose alternative transportation modes instead of driving alone are making a significant impact on improving our air quality,” said David A. Boggs, Valley Metro Executive Director. “With so much concern about the environment right now, it’s important to know that each of us can make a very real and positive impact.”

Out of a total 3.4 million commute trips made in the Valley each day, more than 390,400 of those are made in a carpool; 86,700 trips are taken on the bus; and 162,300 commute trips are not taken at all due to employees who telecommute from home. Trip reduction has a direct correlation to air quality, and 95 percent of Valley residents agree that air pollution and traffic congestion are problems in the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Residents will be reminded about the benefits of shared commuting, and current commuters will be thanked, during “Fall Rideshare Week,” Oct. 29 – Nov. 2. Residents are encouraged to carpool on “Carpool Wednesday,” Oct. 31. The week also includes a special effort to greet and thank bus riders during Nov. 1’s morning commute.

The latest Valley Metro survey of commuter habits reveals:

Quick Facts

• The percent of employees who drive alone one or more days a week decreased to the lowest level (85%) reported since 2000.
• The average one-way work commute in Maricopa County is 14.4 miles, up from 14 miles in 2006. It the longest average commute recorded in more than seven years.
• The average time to complete work commutes is 27.8 minutes, up from 26 minutes in 2006.
• Average daily express bus ridership increased by 3% in 2007 to 5,918.
• Since 2006, the number of residents who telework increased to 13% who doing so one or more days per week, and carpooling increased to 18% doing so one or more days per week.
• 51% of us have changed our driving habits due to gas prices; most common action is to reduce trips (20%); followed by combining trips (15%).
• 43% took some action in response to hearing about a high pollution advisory.

Source: