Bus pass program popular
At least 150 employees have received free GRTC bus passes under a University-sponsored program to help them deal with the high cost of fuel while reducing the University’s carbon footprint.
The program also offers carpool and ride-share matching for workers who do not live near a bus line.
The program might be in jeopardy, however, because in July GRTC announced a plan to eliminate several bus routes, including route 16, which serves the campus. A public hearing on the plan drew a crowd of UR employees, students and alumni, who spoke against the proposal. Richmond City Council is expected to discuss the matter in the fall.
Before becoming the first corporate sponsor of Greater Richmond Transit Company’s Go Green program, the University had about 35 employees commuting by bus, including Web graphic designer Kim Spencer. She says the free bus passes make her more inclined to take the bus instead of riding her motorcycle to campus. “I like taking the bus primarily because of the people I meet, “ she says. “I get to know faculty, staff, and members of the Richmond community whom I would not meet otherwise.”
Kim Spencer, Web graphic designer, enjoys commuting to work on the bus with her free bus pass. Approximately 150 employees have received the free passes. Photo: Kevin Schindler
Richmond is one of only a few nonprofit employers in the country to offer a free bus pass program. It plans to test a similar program for students this semester.
The passes are valid as long as the employee continues to work for the University, which is committed to providing the passes as a continuing employee benefit, said Carl Sorensen, associate vice president for human resources. The cost to the University will be based on utilization.
The University will receive recognition from GRTC for its sponsorship, including bus billboards.
Another employee said of the program, “I began with the goal of riding the bus at least three times a week, but it’s turned into pretty much every day now. It’s a longer commute for me, but it’s free, and since I’m not driving, I can read or just relax before or after work.”