Organization-wide support is key to a successful commute trip reduction program. This support is especially beneficial when it comes from executives within an organization, as these individuals are attuned to not only the personal benefits of commute options, but see the overall business benefits as well. These executives also frequently have the authority within the organization to get things done when it comes to building an effective commute trip reduction program. Commuter Challenge interviewed several executives in King County who regularly use commute options in an effort to find out why they do and what their perspective is on the benefits—both personal and business—of commute trip reduction programs.

The executives we surveyed are department directors, attorneys, vice presidents, and area managers, and all use alternate commute options at least three days a week. Most respondents use transit services such as the bus, monorail or ferry, while others use carpools, run, walk or bicycle.

A variety of reasons were given for using commute options by the executives surveyed, covering a wide range of issues and providing good examples of what other commuters frequently echo. Several respondents stated exercise as a major reason they opt to walk, run or bike to work. “I get most of my exercise on my run home. If I drove, this would not be an option,” says Tom Carr, Seattle City Attorney.

Convenience and efficiency also were mentioned as compelling reasons to not drive alone. Jared Smith, vice president and area manager of Parsons Brinckerhoff says, “It is actually quicker and more time efficient for me to commute by transit. I get to read the newspaper, catch up on reading or visit with neighbors—much more enjoyable than sitting alone in traffic listening to talk radio.”

The rising cost of parking, gas and vehicle maintenance also can play a role. “I started using commute options more as my drive alone costs began to mount and we moved to a new location with better bus service,” says Eric Walker, vice president of Administration, Finance & Human Resources for Program for Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH). Walker also finds the commute via transit gives him a jump on his workday. “I now have a new and perhaps more important reason for staying with the option—it gives me more work time. I routinely use my laptop on the bus to manage the ever-growing flow of e-mail, or to read work-related material. The bus ride has allowed me to extend my workday, keep up with e-mail, and be more consistent in leaving on time to meet my family commitments.”

University of Washington Executive Vice President Weldon Ihrig participates in the University’s U-PASS program and has found that using an alternative commute option actually reduced his level of stress. “Once I tried riding the bus, I found my stress level went way down, and I became more relaxed,” Ihrig says.

All the executives we surveyed offer commute trip reduction programs to their employees. Each of the organizations surveyed has made a commitment to commute trip reduction—whether it is vanpool or FlexPass subsidies, Ridematch Online, Home Free Guarantee, or showers and lockers. By giving their employees the tangible incentives they need to get out of their cars and use an alternate commute option, they are not only offering their employees personal benefits, but they are also reaping great business benefits. “Morale is important, therefore how your employees see you as an employer is important,” says Yvonne Sanchez, director of the City of Seattle Department of Neighborhoods.

Jared Smith explains how Parsons Brinckerhoff benefits from its commute trip reduction program. “Employees save money, enjoy their commute more and view our FlexPass program as one of their most valuable benefits. This helps us attract and retain great professionals who share our company values and commitment to the environment,” says Smith. To other employers, he recommends: “Put your money where your mouth is by subsidizing the program and making it a part of your benefits package. Also, find employees who will lead the charge within your company—they will be much more effective in promoting commute options. And set the example as company leaders by using options yourself.”

Increased employee productivity is also a welcome business benefit from commute trip reduction programs, as commute options help reduce stress and free up employees’ time that would otherwise be spent sitting in traffic. Tom Carr of the City of Seattle has seen these benefits firsthand. “These are cost effective ways of improving worker productivity,” says Carr. “A significant number of my employees commute via bicycle or on foot. I find that this improves their perspective, eases stress and helps them keep fit.”

Eric Walker of PATH agrees. “Traffic congestion is becoming a major issue for all employees, and any steps that lead managers can take to help ease employees’ commutes make a ton of sense.”

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