Port Partners with Ridelink to Encourage Carpooling

Monday, 23 June 2008

The Port of San Diego has partnered with RideLink to help reduce the environmental impact of its employees’ commutes. For several years, the Port has encouraged employees to use public transportation such as the bus and the trolley, and has provided preferred parking spaces for employees who carpool. The Port’s recent partnership with RideLink will strengthen the Port’s efforts by providing strategies and effective options to driving alone to work.

Through this partnership, the Port provides information in new hire packets on various modes of transportation, including vanpools, carpools, and transit, and the financial benefits and environmental impacts of an employee’s commute choice. Port employees may choose to receive a carpool/vanpool match list that includes people in their neighborhoods, or one that only includes other Port employees. In addition, commuter benefits are discussed in detail as part of the new employee orientation, including the Port’s 75% reimbursement for the use of public transportation.

This commuter information program supports the Port’s Green Port Program, which unifies the Port’s environmental sustainability goals in six key areas: water, energy, air, waste management, sustainable development, and sustainable business practices.  As part of the Green Port Program, the Port establishes long-term goals and evaluates progress in each area annually.  The Green Port Program both continues the Port’s existing environmental efforts and expands these efforts through new programs and initiatives.