Press Releases

For Immediate Release

More Commuters Turn to 511 for Relief From Pain at the Pump

Boost in Rideshare Inquiries Mirrors Record High Gas Prices

Contact:
Susan Gluss, 511 Regional Rideshare Program, 510.273.3650 / 510.220.0364 (cell)
Dara Tolk, Wolfe/Doyle, 415.775.0700, x257

OAKLAND, Calif., August 15, 2005…The pain of record high gas prices prompted commuters last week to search for partners to ride to work together. Hits to the ridesharing section of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC)’s 511 (www.511.org) Web site nearly doubled to about 22,000 on Thursday, August 11, from about 12,000 on Thursday, August 4. The number of people who filled out applications for ridesharing also increased by about 16 percent the same week — and by about 30 percent from the week of July 10.

“Commuters are clearly searching for ways to cut the costs of driving alone,” said Debbie Maus, Operations Manager for the 511 Regional Rideshare Program. “The costs of driving solo are straining family budgets. With gas prices in California at 31 cents more than the national average, consumers can save money by sharing commuting costs with other riders.” The average price of regular gas in California is $2.72 per gallon, the highest in the country, according to the American Automobile Association.

The 511 Regional Rideshare Program is a free service that helps commuters find people who live and work nearby to carpool or vanpool or even bicycle together to work. Ridesharing can save commuters time and money by providing access to the Bay Area’s growing network of carpool lanes and free park-and-ride lots. Those new to carpooling and vanpooling may also qualify for financial incentives or subsidies and can cross bridges toll-free during peak commute times. Anyone in the nine-county region who is interested in carpooling or vanpooling can register at www.511.org and find the latest commute information and transit alternatives.

“Ridesharing, whether formal or casual, is an invaluable tool in the battle against traffic congestion. And if you’ve got a long commute, sharing the ride with others may be the most relaxing, flexible and economical way to go,” said Maus.

The 511 Regional Rideshare Program is funded by MTC, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), the U.S. Department of Transportation, and county congestion management agencies. MTC is the transportation planning, coordinating and financing agency for the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area.

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