Share a Ride Make a Friend

By Juan Carlos Gil

Break out of the routine while making a difference in the environment, in your community and not to mention your wallet. Carpooling or vanpooling can cut your commuting expenses in half.

Ride sharing is a great way to meet neighbors, co-workers or people in your community that share a similar daily commute as you. Not only will you save money, have a friend to talk to or just relax on your trip home but you’ll reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and sustain the quality of living in our region.

Carpools and vanpools can use the high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes and HOV bypass on-ramp meters when available. According to rideshareonline.com a solo driver who changes their 20-mile round trip commute to the bus or rail can reduce their CO2 emissions by 4,800 lbs. per year.

Washington State has the largest public vanpool fleet in North America; it’s also a comfortable way to commute to and from work with less stress. Vanpools can take 14 single commuters off the roads making roads less congested and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Make new friends at work and in your community by ride sharing; you will also cut down on your expenses and CO2 Emissions. Washington State Department, of Transportation makes it very easy for those interested in getting involved in carpooling and vanpooling. Their Rideshare program at rideshareonline.com has many resources and can guide you step by step to matching you with the best option.