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1. Can only CTR-affected sites implement a commute options program?

Even if your employer is not required to implement a commute options program under the Commute Trip Reduction (CTR) Act, they can still elect to participate in a program to help lower carbon emissions.

Ride Together Pierce can help your Pierce County employer, big or small, successfully build out a transportation program to help employees get to work using alternative transportation. Contact us to see how we can help bring a commute options program to your workplace!

2. What is the role of an ETC (Employee Transportation Coordinator)?

An Employee Transportation Coordinator (ETC) is someone who promotes transportation options within a company's commute options program. They act as a go-between for the company's management and employees, as well as for the employer and local jurisdiction. Their job is to help implement, promote and administer the company's commute options program, and track progress in meeting Commute Trip Reduction (CTR) requirements.

The ETC does a variety of things, like meeting with management to decide on program elements, working with transit agencies and the local government, completing reporting requirements, coordinating employee surveys, helping employees find rideshares, promoting the commute options program, and tracking employee participation. 

They also distribute subsidies and incentives, monitor employee parking in designated HOV spaces, and keep management up to date on the program's progress. 

3. How can I encourage employees to join the transportation program?

Incentives and subsidies are a great way to encourage employees to try alternative transportation modes. 

• An incentive is a periodic or one-time offering, such as giveaways, monthly treats, a late start for bike riders or discounts.

• A subsidy is provided on a regular schedule and is usually tied to the smart mode used, such as subsidizing the cost of using the bus or a vanpool, allowing employees to earn a dollar amount per day for using alternative transportation modes or allowing employees to earn time off. 

• Another perk is assisting with carpool/vanpool ride matching and offering front-door carpool/vanpool parking.

Connecting employees to cost-effective, convenient commuting options that fit their work schedules can also encourage employees to join the transportation program. Offering work-from-home options or a compressed workweek might work for some employees, while a convenient and cost-effective vanpool or carpool may be best for others.

Education combined with incentives and subsidies can help engage employees in the CTR program and encourage them to try out alternative transportation modes.

4. How does the Emergency Ride Home program benefit employees?

The Emergency Ride Home program offers a safety net in case of an emergency when employees choose an alternative transportation mode.

If your employer partners with Ride Together Pierce, you may be eligible for a free Uber, Lyft or taxi ride home in case of an emergency. Visit Ride Together Pierce’s Emergency Ride Home page for more information.