Low-cost ideas for CTR programs

Dear Strapped:
The answer to your question is a resounding "yes!" We checked with some Employer Transportation Representatives (ETRs) at King County Metro who work with ETCs in your situation all the time. They shared with us the following ideas to help you improve your program and keep your employees happy.

If your site has parking available, designating some of those spots for carpools and vanpools is one option. How many spots you "donate" for this will depend on whether your company owns or leases parking, so you'll need to work with management on that. If you can't give carpool spots away, consider giving a substantial discount based on the number of riders in each vehicle.

Offering compressed workweek and flextime schedules or allowing employees to telework also will take cars off the road during peak hours and reduce pollution.

Allowing employees to set aside a tax-free portion (up to $100/month) of each paycheck for commute expenses is another option—and one that will reduce the amount of payroll tax your company pays.

If you have a company newsletter or intranet site, profiling employees who use alternative commute modes is a good way to reward them and encourage others to "get on board." If a manager is setting a good commute example, showing employees that management is willing to "walk the talk"—literally—will go a long way too!

Just remember to keep it fun and easy for employees to participate and you’ll keep your CTR program growing no matter what bumps are in the road!
HOV