Best Workplaces for Commuters

Nine Fairfax County Employers Designated “Best Workplaces for Commuters”

2012-01-04T16:32:00.001-05:00

Nine Fairfax County Employers Designated “Best Workplaces for Commuters”

Race to Excellence 2011 Kicks Off!

2011-07-22T17:06:00.001-04:00

We invite you to join other Best Workplaces for Commuters’ members and compete in the 2011 Race to Excellence! The 2011 Race officially begins on August 1 and ends October 15. During the Race period, we will send updates, tips, and deadline reminders to make participation fun and easy.

Please review the Race to Excellence instructions. You must be a member to participate. This link also provides guidance and tools for competing in the Best Workplaces for Commuters’ Race to Excellence. At this link, you will find eligibility requirements, timelines and the 5 Race Achievements for both Employee Transportation Coordinators and Supporting Agencies.

We recommend you also review the Race to Excellence application. The application is provided in an easy to submit electronic format. The application is due by November 11.

A Virtual Awards Ceremony will be held January, 2012 (date to be announced). All winners will be announced during the Ceremony and receive national recognition along with an engraved medal. If you have any questions, please email info@bestworkplaces.org.

Important Dates to Remember:

Race Begins: August 1, 2011
Qualifying Race Period: January 1 – October 15, 2011
Application and Supporting Materials Due: November 11, 2011
Virtual Awards Ceremony: January, 2012

We look forward to your participation in this exciting Race!

2010 Race to Excellence Winners Announced

2011-01-12T14:36:00.003-05:00

Story Source: Julie Bond
(813) 974-9799

USF’s Center for Urban Transportation Selects Best Workplaces for Commuters Winners

Awards recognize companies and professionals who offer highest level of commuter benefits

TAMPA, Fla. (Jan. 11, 2011) – Best Workplaces for Commuters, a program designed to encourage sustainable transportation innovation and managed by the University of South Florida’s National Center for Transit Research, singled out 23 companies, institutions and individuals nationwide Tuesday in the 2010 “Race to Excellence” Virtual Awards Ceremony.
The awards recognize organizations who have taken exemplary steps to for their efforts to offer alternatives for their employees driving alone and thereby reduce air pollution, traffic congestion, and fuel usage from Jan. 1, 2010 to Oct. 15, 2010.
Best Workplaces for Commuters provides qualified employers with programs and services along with national recognition and an elite designation for offering outstanding commuter benefits, such as free or low cost bus passes. Employers that meet the National Standard of Excellence in commuter benefits – a standard created by the National Center for Transit Research (NCTR) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – can become a member of Best Workplaces for Commuters.
And the winners are:
 “Best Of” and Gold
 CommuterLink (New York, New York)
 Fairfax County Government (Fairfax County, Virginia)
 MetroPool, Inc. (New York and Connecticut)
 Sunset Development Company - Bishop Ranch (San Ramon, California)
 University of California, San Francisco (San Francisco, California)
 Tindale-Oliver and Associates, Inc. (Tampa, Florida)

 Gold
 California Bank and Trust ( San Diego, California)
 CARTUS (Danbury, CT)
 Greater Valley Forge TMA (King of Prussia, Pennsylvania)
 Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minnesota)
 Mercy General Hospital (Sacramento, California)
 Microsoft Corporation (Redmond, Washington)
 Stanford University (Stanford, California)
 State of Arizona (Phoenix, AZ)
 University of California – Irvine (Irvine, CA)
 University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (Chapel Hill, NC)
 Verizon California, Inc. (Santa Monica, California)
 Virginia Tech (Blacksburg, VA)
 Silver
 Aerospace Corporation (El Segundo, California)
 Bioengineering Group (Salem, MA)
 Quarles and Brady LLC (Phoenix, AZ)
 Bronze
 Grand Hyatt New York (New York)
 Compuware Corporation (Detroit, MI)

The University of South Florida is one of the nation's top 63 public research universities and one of only 25 public research universities nationwide with very high research activity that is designated as community engaged by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. USF was awarded $394.1 million in research contracts and grants in FY 2009/2010. The university offers 232 degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate, specialist and doctoral levels, including the doctor of medicine. The USF System has a $1.8 billion annual budget, an annual economic impact of $3.2 billion, and serves more than 47,000 students on institutions/campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and Lakeland. USF is a member of the Big East Athletic Conference.

Best Workplaces for Commuters Race to Excellence Finalists Announced

2011-01-07T13:23:00.004-05:00

We are pleased to announce the finalists for the 2010 BWC Race to Excellence. Finalists will be awarded Gold, Silver or Bronze status for their efforts during the Race at a "live" virtual awards ceremony on Tuesday, January 11 at 3 p.m. Eastern. "Best of" awards will also be announced.
Our keynote speaker is Mr. John Lyons, President and CEO of MetroPool, Inc. MetroPool is a national leader recognized for both its work in Connecticut and New York helping companies offer commuter-benefit programs to meet federal standards as well as their own in-house efforts to encourage sustainable workplaces. MetroPool received a 2009 Race to Excellence "Best of" Award for their exemplary support of Best Workplaces for Commuters.

Race to Excellence Finalists

• Aerospace Corporation
• Bioengineering Group
• California Bank and Trust CA
• CARTUS
• CommuterLink
• Compuware Corporation
• Fairfax County Government
• Grand Hyatt New York
• Greater Valley Forge TMA
• Mayo Clinic
• Mercy General Hospital
• MetroPool, Inc.
• Microsoft Corporation
• Quarles and Brady LLC
• Stanford University
• State of Arizona
• Sunset Development Company, Bishop Ranch
• Tindale-Oliver and Associates, Inc.
• University of California, Irvine
• University of California, San Francisco
• University of North Carolina Chapel Hill
• Verizon California, Inc. Santa Monica 1
• Virginia Tech

The Race to Excellence is a challenge that encourages, recognizes, and highlights dedicated professionals throughout the country who promote commuter benefits, transportation options and the Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWC) designation in their workplaces and throughout their local communities. We encourage everyone to attend this exciting ceremony.

The TMA Group lauded for improving air quality and reducing traffic congestion

2010-07-30T09:53:00.003-04:00

Published in the Williamson Herald

The TMA Group has received designation as one of the Best Workplaces for Commuters by the National Center for Transit Research (NCTR) at the Center for Urban Transportation Research, the University of South Florida’s (USF) internationally recognized resource for transportation policy and education.

Best Workplaces for Commuters, a voluntary partnership program designed to cut traffic congestion and traffic-related air pollution, recognizes employers that provide environmentally friendly commuter benefits to employees. Offering these commuter benefits identifies The TMA Group as an organization committed to reducing pollution, commuting costs, traffic congestion, and employee stress caused by single-occupant vehicle commuting.

The TMA Group is a regional leader in customizing environmentally friendly, multimodal transportation solutions for employers and communities offers an array of benefits that help employees pursue environmentally friendly and cost-effective commuting strategies. As part of the company’s comprehensive commuter benefits program, The TMA Group offers commuting options and support services such as vanpool and/or carpool matching; compressed workweek program; participation in a regional air quality program; and a lunchtime shuttle service, the Cool Springs Express, to reduce employee trips.

“Best Workplaces for Commuters recognizes employers who offer high level commuter benefits,” said Julie Bond, NCTR’s national program manager for Best Workplaces for Commuters. “Offering commuter benefits is a win-win situation for employees who change their commuting habits save time, money and stress and employers who gain a competitive edge in employee recruitment and retention.”

“We are proud to make this commitment to our own employees, and to employees and employers throughout our region and to the environment,” said Diane Thorne, TMA chief regional transportation director. “The Best Workplaces for Commuters program demonstrates that a healthy balance sheet and a clean environment are not mutually exclusive. We are currently the only Best Workplace for Commuters employer in Tennessee and join other companies such as Nike, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Goggle, Microsoft, Mayo Clinic and IBM to name a few.”

The results of The TMA Group efforts will be reflected in the environment and in the bottom line. The TMA Group programs reduce commuting costs not only for its employees, but also for all commuters by taking cars off the road and reducing traffic congestion.

Best Workplaces for Commuters (www.bestworkplaces.org) is managed by the National Center for Transit Research at the Center for Urban Transportation Research. The program was initiated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and United States Department of Transportation in 2002. The purpose is to identify and recognize those U.S. companies offering employees significant incentives and programs encouraging commuting alternatives aimed at saving energy and money as well as reducing air pollution. The program challenges employers across the country to meet voluntarily the National Standard of Excellence.

House Passes Telework Improvements Act

2010-07-14T18:10:00.003-04:00

The Telework Improvements Act (H.R. 1722) passed today by a vote of 290-131. A similar Senate version of the bill (S. 707) pas unanimously in May. The purpose is to improve teleworking in executive agencies of the federal government by developing a telework program that allows employees to telework at least 20 percent of the hours worked in every 2 administrative workweeks, and for other purposes.For more information on the bill,
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h111-1722

Ridesharing in the Facebook Generation Web Conference

2010-07-12T14:57:00.002-04:00

A Best Workplaces for Commuters "Virtual" Roundtable Discussion
Date: Thursday, July 29, 2010
Time: 3 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. Eastern 2 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Central 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. Mountain 12 noon to 1:15 p.m. Pacific

There is no registration fee for current BWC members but preregistration is required for all. Members shown on 2010 List of Best Workplaces for Commuters can sign up for this free web conference at BWC Members Registration.

Former BWC organizations and non-members may attend for $115 per site at BWC Non-Members. To be considered for membership, please complete this online application for membership.

Summary: While the benefits of ridesharing have been clear for decades, the popularity of ridesharing has been limited. Previous systems haven't provided a social context, and as a result they have received a lukewarm adoption. The concept of online social networks has changed the game. Employing a solution that proactively builds both trust and critical mass is allowing employers to build viable rideshare communities. Hear about current efforts and developing programs from two Universities and a regional rideshare program during this informative session.

Speakers:
Jeff Shields, Associated Director
University of Southern California Transportation

Lev Vanshelbaum, Alternate Commute Coordinator
University of Southern California Transportation

Josh Cantor, Director, Parking & Transportation
George Mason University

Jeremy Holmes, Transportation Alternatives Coordinator
RIDE Solutions, Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission

Moderated by:
Julie Bond, Project Manager
Best Workplaces for Commuters

Boosting Morale, Performance and Savings Via Compressed Work Weekspresentation

2010-07-12T08:50:00.004-04:00

On June 24, 2010, the National Center for Transit Research (NCTR) at the University of South Florida and the Association for Commuter Transportation (ACT) held a netconference on "Boosting Morale, Performance and Savings Via Compressed Work Weeks." Pier Simeri, Community Relations & Public Affairs Director, City of Avondale (AZ) discussed the city's Green Friday program. Jeff Herring, the Executive Director of the Department of Human Resource Management for the State of Utah discussed the Working 4 Utah Initiative. View this on-demand streaming media presentation and download slides

If you like that webinar, you might also be interested in more of the 30 other on-demand streaming presentations hosted by NCTR.

Upcoming Web Conference: TDM in the City - Leading by Example

2010-05-06T14:11:00.001-04:00

TDM in the City - Leading by Example
A Best Workplaces for Commuters "Virtual" Roundtable Discussion
Join us for TDM in the City - Leading by Example, a virtual roundtable discussion providing a provocative look at public sector Best Workplaces for Commuters that are leading by example. From California to Colorado to North Carolina, our panel of diverse experts will share their unique commuter programs for their workers as well as their communities. The roundtable format will allow for a lively discussion and attendees can ask questions and receive answers during the session.
Visit the BWC website for updated information or to see The List of Best Workplaces for Commuters.
Date: Thursday, May 20, 2010
Time: 3 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. Eastern | 2 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Central | 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. Mountain | 12 noon to 1:15 p.m. Pacific
County of Orange, California - The County of Orange's 18,000 employees report to over 100 work locations, work varied hours/days, and report to 24 different agencies/departments. The Commuter Assistance Program has evolved to include a "virtual" rideshare office, a network of on-site coordinators, an "All-In-One" form, an on-line tool for Human Resource Managers, and more. The presentation will highlight the challenges and solutions to implementing a rideshare program in a very decentralized work environment.
City of Aspen, Colorado - With a population of only 6,000 people year round, the City provides free transit passes and supports flexible work schedules and telecommuting for employees. City employees are encouraged to use commute alternatives and are not provided with free parking. Fleet bicycles and shower facilities are available at City Hall. The entire community benefits from Aspen's free eight-route transit system which carries over 1-million passengers annually. In addition, the CAR TO GO carshare program allows access to private vehicles, supporting a car-free lifestyle for employees and citizens while encouraging reduced vehicle ownership. The results of a comprehensive program show traffic remaining at 1993 levels - a major goal of the City's comprehensive plan.
City of Asheville, North Carolina - The City provides a transit pass benefit and a significant compressed work week program for employees along with rideshare matching, preferred parking for carpools, and the City's one vanpool. They also have an Emergency Ride Home program, secure bicycle parking and amenities, and a new bikesharing program. The City of Asheville also promotes TDM applications with large employers in Western North Carolina such as Buncombe County and the Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa.

Roundtable Panel:
Cecilia J. McLaughlin, TDM Consultant and Manager of Commuter Assistance Program
County of Orange, California

Jeffrey Winter, Transportation Coordinator
City of Aspen, Colorado

Kathy Molin, TDM Coordinator
City of Asheville, North Carolina

Host: Julie Bond, Project Manager
Best Workplaces for Commuters

This session is provided as a free benefit to Best Workplaces for Commuters members.

BWC Members:
• Web Conference Registration: http://tinyurl.com/2eavtse
Former BWC and Non-Members:
• Web Conference Registration and $115 Payment: http://tinyurl.com/24rohnv
• Apply today to be recognized as a Best Workplace for Commuters!

BWC on Treehugger

2010-03-02T19:18:00.001-05:00

Best Workplaces for Commuters was recently featured by Treehugger.

USF Center to Award Best Workplaces for Commuters Race to Excellence | Maddux NewsWire

2009-12-01T16:19:00.000-05:00

USF Center to Award Best Workplaces for Commuters Race to Excellence Maddux NewsWire

Race to Excellence Virtual Awards Ceremony

2009-11-19T08:03:00.001-05:00

Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWC) announces the first Race to Excellence Virtual Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, December 2 at 3 p.m. – 4 p.m. Eastern Time. Please join us in recognizing the achievements of Best Workplaces for Commuters Champions and Employee Transportation Coordinators. The ceremony will highlight the work of individuals across the country who have taken the lead to work towards ensuring that Best Workplaces for Commuters continues to grow as a dynamic solution to conserving energy and increasing the quality of life for everyone.
Please RSVP to this free event by clicking the link below and registering to attend.

https://diablo.forest.usf.edu/ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=3255&SINGLESTORE=true

We look forward to your attendance.

Race to Excellence Deadline Extended

2009-10-28T10:44:00.000-04:00

We are announcing a one week extension for the 2009 Race to Excellence to November 9, 2009.

The Race to Excellence provides an exciting opportunity for you to receive national recognition for your leadership in providing and promoting commuter benefits at your workplace.

The Race to Excellence is a challenge that encourages, recognizes, and highlights dedicated professionals throughout the country who promote commuter benefits, transportation options and the Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWC) designation in their workplaces and throughout their local communities. It recognizes the hard work of two groups of professionals - BWC Employee Transportation Coordinators and BWC Champions, both of who are actively promoting superior commuter benefits and transportation options on a national basis.

Compete in the Race, and you will receive:

· National recognition via an exciting Virtual Awards Ceremony

· Gold, silver or bronze status and "Best of" recognition will go to three Employee Transportation Coordinators (ETC)

· Permanent recognition on BWC website

· Personalized letter to company or agency leadership

· Press release announcing award to local and national media

Anyone can attend the orientation but only current Best Workplaces for Commuters members in good standing can participate. If you haven't done so in 2009, please update your record to http://www.bestworkplaces.org/pdf/application.pdf

Enter by completing this Race to Excellence application. There is no cost for entering the Race to Excellence.

We look forward to your participation in the 2009 Race to Excellence.

Will e-bikes help Encourage Bicycle Commuting?

2009-10-18T12:58:00.005-04:00

Electric bicycles or e-bikes have been around for awhile. They haven't caught on for commuting in the United States as fast as in other countries. Read this interesting CNN article published this month. It may be the right time for change.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/10/15/electric.bicycles/index.html

BWC and Climate Change: Making the Connection

2009-10-09T15:47:00.000-04:00

Join the Champions Listserv and receive "BWC and Climate Change: Making the Connection," on CD. This CD will help BWC community coordinators and other supporters take advantage of new opportunities to position BWC as a near-term,cost-effective climate solution. Quantities are limited to the first 50 to sign up.

Join at this link:

http://www.bestworkplaces.org/suppor/ind ex.htm

Welcome to our newest member - Symetra Financial

2009-09-24T11:29:00.002-04:00

Best Workplaces for Commuters welcomes Symetra Financial to the growing list of Best Workplaces for Commuters. Symetra Financial has met the Standard of Excellence for providing high level commuter benefits.

View their website at http://www.symetra.com/careers/.

Top 10 Tips to Race to Excellence

2009-09-23T15:42:00.002-04:00

Best Workplaces for Commuters' 2009 Race to Excellence is underway!

Here are Top 10 Tips for the Race to Excellence

1. Review the Instructions and online application form at
http://www.bestworkplaces.org

2. Find answers to frequently asked Race to Excellence questions at
http://tinyurl.com/racetoexcellence

3. Ask the BWC Help Desk questions and receive answers.
http://tinyurl.com/bwchelpdesk

4. Document your efforts with photos and use them when creating visual
PowerPoint slides for the Awards Ceremony.

5. Find your company name on the updated list of employers on the home
page at www.bestworkplaces.org. If your workplace is not on the list, it
is time to re-apply using this form:
http://www.bestworkplaces.org/pdf/application.pdf

6. Use the BWC Logo twice during the race period. Find the logo at
http://www.bestworkplaces.org/empkit/kit_section1.htm

7. Compete as a Champion, Employee Transportation Coordinator or both.
Join the Champion Listserv at
http://www.bestworkplaces.org/suppor/index.htm

8. Submit your application no later than November 2, 2009.

9. Mark your calendar for the December 2, 2009 Virtual Awards Ceremony.

10. Have fun!

The Race to Excellence is a challenge that encourages, recognizes, and
highlights dedicated professionals throughout the country who promote
commuter benefits, transportation options and the Best Workplaces for
Commuters (BWC) designation in their workplaces and throughout their
local communities. The Race to Excellence recognizes the hard work of
two groups of professionals - BWC Employee Transportation Coordinators
and BWC Network Members, both of who are actively promoting superior
commuter benefits and transportation options on a national basis.

Compete in the Race, and you will receive:

National recognition via an exciting Virtual Awards CeremonyGold, silver
or bronze status and "Best of" recognition will go to three Employee
Transportation Coordinators (ETC)Permanent recognition on BWC
websitePersonalized letter to company or agency leadershipPress release
announcing award to local and national media

We look forward to your participation in the 2009 Race to Excellence.

Thank you Best Workplaces for Commuters Champions!

2009-09-16T11:50:00.001-04:00

The list is growing.

Champion Network, 2009

Debbie Anderson, Community Transit, WA

Julie Bond, CUTR, FL

Glama Carter, Collier County, FL

Diane Davidson, Oak Ridge Laboratories, TN

Wendy Duren, Arlington Transportation Partners, VA

Denis Eirikis, Clear Light Communications Inc., FL

Tammy Ford, RideShare Delaware, DE

John Galgano, CommuterLink, NY

Nevine Georggi, CUTR, FL

Lisa Horanyi, Thomas Jefferson PDC, VA

Jeff Horton, Commuter Services of North Florida, FL

Karen Kress, Tampa Downtown Partnership, FL

Lauren Peak, GVF Transportation, PA

Carol Perry, RTC, WA

Tami Herendeen Rice, Metropool, NY

Stephanie Loyka-Minker, Triangle Transit, NC

John Lyons, Metropool, NY

Heather McCarey, Lloyd TMA, Portland, OR

Peggy Schwartz, North Bethesda Transportation, MD

Kathy Smith, A.J. Dwoskin & Associates Inc.

Miriam Sorell, 511 Rideshare, CA

Florinda Teixerira, Metropool, NY

Phil Winters, CUTR, FL

Thank you for your support!

Become a Best Workplaces for Commuters Champion

2009-09-13T11:26:00.002-04:00

The new list of Best Workplaces for Commuters Champions is growing. If you would like to become a supporter of BWC, join the listserv and your name will be added to the list of leaders across the country.

The Champion network is a forum for both individuals and organizations interested in collaborating with Best Workplaces for Commuters. A Champion works to support Best Workplaces for Commuters employers and participates in the Race to Excellence. Oftentimes, a Champion may be an employee of a Best Workplaces for Commuters designated employers.

http://www.bestworkplaces.org/suppor/index.htm

Bay Area Commuter Services Leads as a Best Workplaces for Commuters

2009-09-08T11:16:00.004-04:00

Bay Area Commuter Services (BACS) recently received recognition as a BWC employer. BACS is also an organization that promotes transportation options to the single-occupant vehicle in the Tampa Bay and surrounding counties.

Find out more about their initiatives at www.tampabayrideshare.com

Butzel Long receives designation as Best Workplaces for Commuters

2009-09-08T11:11:00.002-04:00

Butzel Long has met the BWC Standard of Excellence for worksites in New York and Michigan and is designated a Best Workplaces for Commuters.

The law firm is recognized for providing its employees with outstanding commuter benefits which meet the National Standard of Excellence and help reduce traffic and air pollution in the community.

Best Workplaces for Commuters Membership Grows

2009-09-02T09:26:00.003-04:00

Best Workplaces for Commuters is an innovative membership program that provides qualified employers with national recognition and an elite designation for offering outstanding commuter benefits, such as free or low cost bus passes, strong telework programs, carpooling matching and vanpool subsidies. Employers that meet the National Standard of Excellence in commuter benefits—a standard created by the Center for Urban Transportation Research and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency—can get on the list of Best Workplaces for Commuters. Visit www.bestworkplaces.org for complete information.

The following employers have recently met the Standard of Excellence and are Best Workplaces for Commuters. Congratulations to these leaders!

128 Business Council

Bay Area Commuter Services

Central Arizona Project

City of Santa Monica

Community Transit

Compuware Corporation

Downtown Minneapolis TMO

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics- Marietta

Mayo Clinic

Metropool, Inc.

National Semiconductor Corporation

Palo Alto Research Center

Peninsula Traffic Congestion Relief

Pima Association of Governments

Point2point Solutions

St. Paul Smart Trips

State of Arizona

University of Michigan Parking and Transportation Services

Join us for an informative web conference!

2009-08-24T16:34:00.000-04:00

Encouraging and Supporting Bicycling through Employer Initiatives Web Conference

As a free benefit for Best Workplaces for Commuters' members, on Thursday, August 27, 2009 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. EDT/Noon PDT, we are holding "Encouraging and Supporting Bicycling through Employer Initiatives" web conference. Non-members may attend for $115 per site. Preregistration is required for all. National experts on bicycle programs will offer suggestions and examples on how to support bicycle commuting in the workplace and they will discuss how your business can strengthen its bicycle friendliness. This is a session you won't want to miss.

Speakers: Alison Dewey, Program Specialist, Bicycle Friendly Communities and League of American Bicyclists and Jeremy Doak, Director of Marketing, Accor Services with Julie Bond, Project Manager, Best Workplaces for Commuters, as your moderator.

Web Conference Registration

Current BWC Members: If you haven't submitted an application in 2009, it is time to renew your Best Workplace for Commuters' membership! before you register for the web conference. Members that have submitted an update and paid annual fee of $230 can go to Web Conference Registration to register for free. Future web conferences are free for members.

BWC Non-Members:Web Conference Registration and Payment ($115) Or you can apply today to become a Best Workplace for Commuters. There is no cost to apply. $230 annual membership fee covers the balance of 2009 and all of 2010.

Race to Excellence launched

2009-08-14T15:55:00.004-04:00

USF Center Launches Best Workplaces for Commuters Race to Excellence

TAMPA, Fla. (Aug. 11, 2009) – Best Workplaces for Commuters, a program designed to encourage transportation innovation, is launching the Race to Excellence to recognize the efforts and achievements of their outstanding members and supporters. Best Workplaces for Commuters is managed by the National Center for Transit Research (NCTR) at the University of South Florida.The Race is a challenge that encourages and recognizes companies and profession als throughout the country who promote commuter benefits, transportation choices, and the Best Workplaces for Commuters designation in their work places and throughout their local communities. The 2009 Race to Excellence will run from Aug. 13 to Oct. 15. Companies will be evaluated on transportation programs offered in the 2009 calendar year.A kick off session offering complete information on how to participate will be held during a live web conference on Aug. 13 at 3 p.m. (EDT). The web conference will be recorded and available for on-demand viewing after the live session at www.bestworkplaces.org. Participants will receive Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards announced and pre sented at a Virtual Awards Ceremony held in December.

In addition, a “Best of” award will also be presented to a race participant at a Best Workplaces for Commuters-designated University, FORTUNE 500 Company and to a Champion.“We are offering increased recognition and benefits through new programs initiated this year.” said Julie Bond, Best Workplaces for Commuters project manager. “The Race to Excellence is one way we acknowledge and reward the tremendous effort put forth by individuals and organizations that support transportation choices across the country.”Best Workplaces for Commuters is a membership program that provides qualified employers with national recognition and an elite designation for offering outstanding commuter benefits, such as free or low-cost bus passes and vanpool fares and strong telework programs. Employers that meet the National Standard of Excellence in commuter benefits – a standard created by USF’s Center for Urban Transportation Research and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – can get on the list of Best Workplaces for Commuters.

To date more than 2,000 employers have received BWC status representing more than 3.6 million commuters.For more information regarding Best Workplaces for Commuters, visit www.bestworkplaces.org or email info@bestworkplaces.org.

The University of South Florida is one of the nation’s top 63 public research universities and one of 39 community-engaged four-year public universities as designated by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. USF was awarded more than $360 million in research contracts and grants in FY 2007/2008. The University offers 224 degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate, specialist and doctoral levels, including the doctor of medicine. The University has a $1.8 billion annual budget, an annual economic impact of $3.2 billion, and serves more than 46,000 students on institutions/campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and Lakeland. USF is a member of the Big East Athletic Conference.– USF –

http://www.madduxpress.com/education/2009/08/12/usf-center-launches-best-workplaces-for-commuters-race-to-excellence-1360

States Give Cyclists Room - The 3-foot Law

2009-08-04T12:08:00.005-04:00

Today, USA Today published an interesting article about the 3-foot law for cyclists. Check and see if your state is working to pass legislation?

Commuting by cycling is on the rise. The number of bike commuters rose from around 483,145 in 2003 to about 664,859 in 2007, a 37.6% increase, according to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey.

Read the article at the link below:

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2009-08-03-bikes_N.htm

Sires Introduces Bill to Aid Commuters

2009-08-03T11:09:00.000-04:00

7/31/2009- Sires Introduces Bill to Aid Commuters

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Albio Sires introduced the Commute LESS (Leveraging Employer Support and Successes) Act, to address increasing commute times and give commuters access to alternative forms of transportation...to reduce commute times and give commuters more options

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Albio Sires introduced the Commute LESS (Leveraging Employer Support and Successes) Act, to address increasing commute times and give commuters access to alternative forms of transportation.

“Every year commuters are stuck in traffic for nearly one full work week and waste three weeks' worth of gas,” said Congressman Sires. “We can give commuters better options than driving alone and spending hours in traffic by encouraging employers to create and expand commuter benefit programs.”

The Commute LESS Act aids commuters by leveraging support from employers. Research performed by the BusinessWeek Research Services found that when employers offered commuter benefit programs, eighteen percent of their employees opted for alternative forms of transportation – including transit, carpooling, teleworking, and biking or walking. In addition to saving commuters time, commuter benefit programs also reduced congestion, conserved fuel, and saved money for commuters.

“If we involve employers in the transportation process, than we can make a real difference for commuters. Working families spend nearly thirty percent of their budgets on transportation costs. By improving and creating new commuter benefit programs, they can realize significant savings, spend more time with their families, and waste less time sitting in traffic.”

The Commute LESS Act give employers the tools and resources they need to provide employees with alternative forms of transportation by establishing a grant program to create and expand commuter benefit programs. It also provides a better connection between transportation planners and employers by creating an employer advisory council to draft commuter trip reduction plans.
###

Is working a 4-day,10-hour week beneficial?

2009-08-03T10:11:00.003-04:00

Scientific American recently published an article regarding the 4-day work week. According to the article, evidence is building that working 40 hours in four days makes good sense for employee health and well-being. The State of Utah launched their mandatory 4-day work week and the results are documented:

An interim report released by the Utah state government in February projected a drop of at least 6,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually from Friday building shutdowns. If reductions in greenhouse gases from commuting are included, the state would check the generation of at least 12,000 metric tons of CO2—the equivalent of taking about 2,300 cars off the road for one year.

Read the full story at:

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=four-day-workweek-energy-environment-economics-utah#comments

Bicycle Access Bill passes in New York City

2009-07-30T08:59:00.003-04:00

According to a July 29 press release from Transportation Alternatives in New York City, Intro. 871: the Bicycle Access Bill was passed. http://legistar.council.nyc.gov/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=452258&GUID=5FA66B86-4A0E-4BFB-B81F-028D344CC571&Search=871&Options=ID%7cText%7c

The release stated the following:

Today, the New York City Council passed Intro. 871, the Bicycle Access Bill, by a 46-1 margin. When signed by Mayor Bloomberg, the new law will enable tens of thousands of would-be bike commuters to bring their bikes into the workplace. Fear of bicycle theft is the number-one reason seasoned bicyclists do not bike to work.

The Bicycle Access Bill requires commercial buildings to allow bicyclists entry, provided there is space set aside by their respective employers to accommodate them. Bicycling is the fastest-growing mode of transportation in NYC, and Transportation Alternatives is campaigning to double cycling by 2011 using tools like the Bicycle Access Bill. Encouraging bike commuting not only supports a more sustainable New York City, it also improves the health of New Yorkers.

"No other city in the country has a policy like the one City Council passed today," says Paul Steely White, Executive Director of Transportation Alternatives. "When we open the doors of New York City’s workplaces to cyclists, tens of thousands of commuters are going to get on two wheels."

Moving Cooler Report Provides Analysis of Transportation Strategies for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions

2009-07-29T15:44:00.006-04:00

A report Moving Cooler was released yesterday by several groups.

http://www.movingcooler.info/

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2009/07/28-4

http://www.newgeography.com/content/00932-uli-moving-cooler-report-greenhouse-gases-exaggerations-and-misdirections

New Study finds Flexible Schedules are Increasing

2009-07-27T10:03:00.003-04:00

A new study by WorldatWork and the Work Design Collaborative (WDC) indicates that the number of hourly workers in the U.S. using flexible scheduling benefits such as teleworking is larger than expected. The study, “Flexible Work Arrangements for Nonexempt Employees,” found that a surprisingly high number of companies are allowing nonexempt employees to telework despite traditional limitations such as work hour and safety requirements.

“There has been a significant body of best practices, policies and procedures developed concerning flexible work for salaried or exempt employees, but far less for hourly or nonexempt employees,” said Ryan Johnson, a WorldatWork vice president and telework expert. “This study indicates that including nonexempt employees in flexible work programs is becoming more of an imperative for employers. Planning, training, and changes to performance evaluation systems are the keys to success.”

Key Findings
1.Nonexempt employees participate in flexible work programs to a much larger extent than researchers had anticipated. 45% of survey respondents (61 out of 135 organizations) report they include nonexempt employees in those programs. Based on previous occupational survey data, the researchers expected to find only about 15% allowing nonexempt participation.

2.The three biggest industrial sectors allowing nonexempts to telework were manufacturing, education and business services. Manufacturing came as a surprise as it is traditionally dominated by nonexempt employees working on site.

3.Employers are providing (or allowing) telework in an ad hoc manner.
•44% do not have a formal selection process in place to determine eligibility.
•39% do not utilize formal employer-employee contracts regarding flexible work arrangements.
•44% do not evaluate technology effectiveness.

“The participation of non-exempt employees in flexible work programs is much higher than expected, but not as well-organized and orderly as is required by employment law,” said Charlie Grantham, managing director of Work Design Collaborative. “As flexible programs grow in both scale and scope, policy development in this area will become a critical human resource management issue.”

About the Survey:
WorldatWork sponsored the study by Work Design Collaborative (WDC) to conduct a survey of U.S. employers. A mailing to more than 2,000 employers in the Work Design Collaborative database resulted in a total of 135 online surveys completed. Nearly 50 percent of survey respondents have more than 1,000 employees.

To access a full copy of the survey report, visit http://www.workingfromanywhere.org/press.html.

August 3rd will be Telework Day in Virginia

2009-07-24T08:39:00.003-04:00

Virginia Governor Timothy Kaine issued an Executive Order to "green" Virginia. He is calling for reductions in energy consumption and efficiency in state government operations as well as a statewide Telework Day on August 3rd to save the energy of commuting.

A significant telework program also is one of the primary benefits that can make employers eligible to qualify as a Best Workplaces for Commuters.

To sign up for Telework Day, please go to http://www.teleworkexchange.com/teleworkday/

Is your personality best suited for telework?

2009-06-30T09:53:00.001-04:00

Read this interesting article regarding published today in BusinessWeek.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31428341/ns/business-management_101/

Best Workplaces for Commuters Employer Recognized

2009-06-29T09:43:00.001-04:00

Self Help Credit Union of Durham, the newest employer to receive designation as a Best Workplaces for Commuters in the Triangle Area, was recognized during the 2009 Triangle Commuter Awards.

View the latest news articles at the following link:

http://tinyurl.com/ntgo9h

Does Urban Living Help Cure Global Warming?

2009-06-26T12:18:00.003-04:00

The Center for Neighborhood Technology created new technology that compares greenhouse gas emissions of city and suburban households. Maps can be viewed at the following link:

http://htaindex.cnt.org/

View their press release at:

http://www.cnt.org/news/2009/05/27/urban-living-helps-curb-global-warming-while-cutting-personal-transportation-costs/

« New Maps Show that Urban Living Helps Curb Global Warming
Illinois Moves Toward More Sustainable Stormwater Management »
Urban Living Helps Curb Global Warming, While Cutting Personal Transportation Costs
Study compares emissions of city, suburban households
[Chicago, IL] At first glance, cities may appear to be a big source of the greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. But new research by the nonprofit Center for Neighborhood Technology (CNT), which compares greenhouse gas emissions of city and suburban households, yields some surprising results.
CNT looked at emissions of carbon dioxide, a key greenhouse gas, stemming from household vehicle travel in 55 metropolitan areas across the U.S. When measured on a per household basis, it found that the transportation-related emissions of people living in cities and compact neighborhoods can be nearly 70% less than those living in suburbs. See how this compares in your region.
“Cities are more location-efficient – meaning key destinations are closer to where people live and work,” said Scott Bernstein, CNT’s President. “They require less time, money, fuel and greenhouse gas emissions for residents to meet their everyday travel needs. People can walk, bike, car-share, take public transit. So residents of cities and compact communities generate less CO2 per household than people who live in more dispersed communities, like many suburbs and outlying areas.
“If you’re deciding where to live, consider moving to an urban area. You’ll help fight global warming by emitting less CO2. And you’re likely to drive less, so you’ll spend less on transportation, saving up to $5,000 annually.”
CNT’s research shows that average transportation costs vary greatly depending on location, from a low of 14% of area household median income in transit-rich, compact communities, to highs of 28% or more in exurban areas where employment, retail, and other amenities are more dispersed.
CNT focused on vehicle travel as a source of emissions, since research shows that transportation accounts for 28% of all greenhouse gases in the U.S.1 Its work compares the conventional per-acre analysis of greenhouse gas emissions due to vehicle travel with a new per-household view in each metropolitan area it studied. The results suggest that, due to their density and transportation alternatives, cities are a central part of the climate change solution.
The research is an outgrowth of CNT’s Housing + Transportation Affordability Index, which examines several aspects of location efficiency. One is the true cost of housing when household transportation costs are factored in, which vary widely by location. Together, transportation and housing can account for more than 60% of annual household expenses for some working families living in outlying areas – significantly impacting their cost of living and quality of life. The site also illuminates the environmental cost of housing location, which includes impacts like household carbon dioxide emissions.
Since its launch a year ago, the H+TTM Affordability Index has been expanded to show current CO2 maps, as well as the impact of location and gasoline costs on household budgets between the years 2000 and 2008. It has also been redesigned and enhanced for ease of use and data access.
Founded in 1978, CNT (www.cnt.org) is a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that works nationally to advance urban sustainability by researching, inventing and testing strategies that use resources more efficiently and equitably. Its programs focus on climate, energy, natural resources, transportation, and community development. CNT is one of eight nonprofits selected from around the world to be recognized by a 2009 MacArthur Award for Creative and Effective Institutions, from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.
12007 data per the U.S. EPA National Greenhouse Gas Inventory

BWC Help Desk Provides Answers

2009-06-25T09:34:00.003-04:00

The Best Workplaces for Commuters Help Desk provides answers to your transportation/commuting questions. Simply pose a question and you will receive an answer from one of our experts. Or, search our data base by category, keywork, or phrases. We store over 400 questions and answers and 115+ case studies about commuter programs and Best Workplaces for Commuters in our solution database.

http://www.bestworkplaces.org

Lockheed Martin receives award for transportation and commuting program

2009-06-24T09:14:00.003-04:00

Lockheed Martin recently received an Acterra Business Environmental Award for transportation and commuting. Lockheed Martin meets the Standard of Excellence and is designated a Best Workplace for Commuters. Congratulations Lockheed Martin for your leadership!

Founded in 1990, Acterra's Business Environmental Awards is dedicated to recognizing outstanding environmental achievements in the San Francisco Bay Area business community. The program's goals include celebrating the accomplishments of businesses with innovative sustainable programs; recognizing the leaders in the industry; and providing an educational forum that increases awareness and motivates all companies to adopt sustainable business practices. Founded in 1990, the Business Environmental Awards is dedicated to recognizing outstanding environmental achievements in the Bay Area business community. The program's goals include celebrating the accomplishments of businesses with innovative sustainable programs; recognizing the leaders in the industry; and providing an educational forum that increases awareness and motivates all companies to adopt sustainable business practices.

http://www.acterra.org/programs/bea/index.html

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Releases Committee Print

2009-06-23T17:02:00.002-04:00

Today, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure released the Committee Print of the next surface transportation authorization bill. The Subcommittee on Highways and Transit is set to mark up the Committee Print on Wednesday, June 24. The completed bill will be introduced at a later date.

http://transportation.house.gov/News/PRArticle.aspx?NewsID=946

Transportation Bill Released Today

2009-06-22T17:29:00.003-04:00

Today, Chairman James L. Oberstar and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee introduced the committee print of the next surface Transportation Authorization Act of 2009. The Highway and Transit Subcommittee of the Transportation and Infrastructure committee will meet on Wednesday, June 24 to mark up the bill. The Mark-up will be at 11:00 am EST and will be webcast.

http://t4america.org/blog/2009/06/22/chairman-releases-full-transportation-bill-text/

Grand Targhee Resort Receives Award

2009-06-22T11:16:00.003-04:00

Grand Targhee Resort was designed a Best Workplaces for Commuters employer during 2007 after meeting the national Standard of Excellence.

Grand Targhee Resort also received the Clif Bar 2009 Golden Eagle Award for overall environmental excellence.

http://www.pitchengine.com/grandtargheeresort/grand-targhee-resort-receives-2009-clif-bar-golden-eagle-award/15359/

CUTR Researchers develop new cell phone technology

2009-06-12T11:47:00.003-04:00

CUTR researchers make news again with cell phone technology.The Travel Assistance Device known as TAD can be used to plan trips online and store them. Read the story at http://tinyurl.com/kmpw2t.

Los Angeles story: 2010 HOV toll lanes

2009-06-10T15:27:00.002-04:00

ABC 7 in Los Angeles aired a story on June 8, 2009 regarding MTA and Caltrans trying HOV TOLL lanes in 2010.

"Caltrans and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) will start a yearlong experiment in December 2010. A federal grant of $210 million will help pay for an added high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane along the 10 Freeway, between the 605 and 710 freeways."

View the video at this link http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/story?section=news/local/los_angeles&id=6855083

Any thoughts? Do you agree with the inclusion of HOV toll Lanes:

Web Conference: Moving Forward as a Best Workplace for Commuters

2009-06-04T13:03:00.000-04:00

Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWC) is launching new programs and services to provide members and supporters with increased recognition, networking and educational opportunities.

Join us for dynamic presentations from the honorable Beth Osborne, Deputy Assistant Secretary for the US Department of Transportation and Denis Olsen, Manager of Transportation and Fleet Management for EMC Corporation. Also, the BWC team will highlight and discuss new BWC programs and services. New this year, pretax commuter benefits and compressed work week have been added to the list of Primary Benefits! Meet your BWC Team Phil Winters, Julie Bond, Nevine Georggi, and Jennifer Iley.

This is a session you don’t want to miss!

Date: Thursday, June 18, 2009
Time: 3:00 p.m. Eastern; 2:00 p.m. Central; 1:00 p.m. Mountain; 12 noon Pacific
Location: No travel required! Participate from the convenience of your workplace. You will need an internet connection and audio provided by Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP). You will also need active speakers on your computer.

Register: Preregistration is required for this FREE web conference. Go to http://tinyurl.com/bestworkplaces . Click on the third box from the left with the web conference name. You will receive an email confirmation of your registration. A couple of days before the event, you will also receive an email with the link to participate.

If you have a question regarding Best Workplaces for Commuters, please email your question to bond@cutr.usf.edu before Friday, June 12. We will post relevant questions with answers during the web conference.

Visit: www.bestworkplaces.org to view our updated website and join one of our social networking groups for daily updates. We are on Twitter, Facebook, and Linked In. A recording of the web conference will be posted on the website for on-demand viewing.

Best Workplaces for Commuters is managed by the
National Center for Transit Research at the Center for Urban Transportation Research.
# # #

U.S. Bank receives designation as Best Workplaces for Commuters at 10 worksites

2009-06-03T10:14:00.006-04:00

U.S. Bank has met the Standard of Excellence and received BWC designation for 10 worksites. The U.S. Bank worksite locations are:

Portland, OR
Milwaukee, WI
St. Louis, MO
Cincinnati, OH
Chicago, IL
Boston, MA
New York, NY
Minneapolis, MN
San Francisco, CA
Los Angeles, CA

We congratulate U. S. Bank for their leadership in providing high level commuter benefits to their employees. Visit http://www.bestworkplaces.org.

University of Pennsylvania is one of Best Workplaces for Commuters

2009-06-02T09:24:00.004-04:00

The University of Pennsylvania has met the standard of excellence and is one of the Best Workplaces for Commuters. View their announcement at http://www.upenn.edu/almanac/volumes/v55/n34/hot.html#4

US House of Representatives meets Standard of Excellence

2009-05-29T07:00:00.001-04:00

The U. S. House of Representatives has met the Standard of Excellence and is now designated one of the Best Workplaces for Commuters. To view the complete list go to www.bestworkplaces.org.

BWC announces Valerus in Houston Texas meets Standard of Excellence

2009-05-29T06:59:00.003-04:00

Valerus in Houston, Texas has met the Standard of Excellence and is a BWC employers. Congratulations!

New BWC discussion group formed on Linkedin

2009-05-28T10:33:00.003-04:00

Best Workplaces for Commuters has formed a discussion group through Linkedin. Linked In is a professional networking site that offers opportunities for exchange with other members.

Join us at Best Workplaces for Commuters http://www.linkedin.com/groups?homeNewMember=&gid=1969503&trk=eml-grp-sub.

BWC is on Facebook and Twitter

2009-05-21T14:14:00.002-04:00

Best Workplaces for Commuters is now on Facebook and Twitter. Please join us for exciting news and updates.

Click on the following links:

http://twitter.com/BestWorkplaces

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tampa-FL/Best-Workplaces-for-Commuters/87038435119

Live WebConference Set for June 18

2009-05-21T10:12:00.003-04:00

A live webconference is set for Thursday, June 18 at 3 p.m. EDT. The event will feature two keynote speakers and the BWC team will present new programs and services. For further information contact bond@cutr.usf.edu or visit http://www.bestworkplaces.org/.

BWC adds two new Primary Benefits

2009-05-13T11:00:00.004-04:00

To qualify as a Best Workplaces for Commuters employer and receive recognition and membership benefits, an organization must meet or exceed the National Standard of Excellence as established by the Environmental Protection Agency.

We have exciting news for employers! Two new benefits were recently added:

❑ Pretax benefit for transit or vanpool with a minimum 30 percent employee participation.
❑ Significant compressed work week program that reduces by at least 6 percent the number of commuting trips

Also, join us on Facebook and Twitter. Go to http://www.bestworkplaces.org/.

Telework and the recent pandemic

2009-05-04T14:08:00.000-04:00

Telework policies can be used as an important tool during a crisis or emergency situation. The recent Swine Flu outbreak was a reminder that employer telework policies should be updated and used when necessary as a tool to help when a crisis hits.

Read these recent articles:
Flu Crisis Underscores Need For Updated Telework Policies
Washington Post, 4/28/2009
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/28/AR2009042803783.html

Is Telecommuting the Way to Avoid Swine Flu?
PC World, 5/03/2009
http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/164259/is_

Teleworking: This is not a drill
Federal News Radio, 05/04/2009
http://www.federalnewsradio.com/index.php?nid=20&sid=1666198

Utah's compressed work week brings unexpected results

2009-04-30T15:23:00.000-04:00

NPR reported encouraging news regarding Utah's 4-day work week. During 2008, Utah became the first state to mandate a 4-day work week for state employees. Unexpected boosts to worker productivity and job satisfaction have emerged.

Read the story-

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=102938615

New this year, BWC has added Compressed Work Week as a primary benefit for meeting the Standard of Excellence.

Through the provision of a 4-day work week, commuters travel to work 20% less than the traditional 5-day work week.