In an effort to accelerate new vanpool formation and strengthen efforts to retain existing vanpool customers, the Board voted on Jan. 26 to reduce the number of occupants required to form a vanpool.
As a result, a vanpool can now form with five individuals registered where six were required previously.
OCTA provides help to commuters to form vanpools and to employers to start a vanpool program. In addition, OCTA contributes $400 per month to qualified vanpools, which is applied directly to the monthly van rental fee.
Vanpools offer a number of benefits. They reduce traffic congestion and pollution and offer commuters a less stressful and potentially less time-consuming way to get to work. Commuters can also save money on gas and maintenance.
By encouraging vanpools, employers benefit as well with decreased parking needs, reduced lateness, and improved employee morale. OCTA helps local employers set up and administer vanpools and is currently working with more than 85 employers and 460 vanpools.
For more information on vanpooling, visit octa.net/vanpool.
