The best commute is free

With escalating gas prices and complex schedules, many commuters would like to car pool but find it challenging. Family events, errands, and unexpected work hours can keep many from exploring carpooling or vanpooling because it can seem daunting. Carpooling once or twice a week can not only cut your carbon emissions, you may even have the opportuntiy to relax and enjoy the ride once in awhile. Here are a few tips to make the transition - and a free program to keep you from worrying about what you would do if a transportation emergency should arise.

Sources for carpool partners
Ask around at work to see if anyone lives in your area, and ask your neighbors around home where they work. Consider meeting at a park-and-ride a few times per week or alternating picking each other up at home. Going a few miles out of your way one day to pick someone up will be ultimately cheaper and more efficient than two seperate vehicles driving every single day. Take turns driving and you can take turns not having to stress out in traffic.

Your employer can coordinate a company-wide Commuter Challenge. If you work for a smaller company, contact neighborhing business and see if they have a carpool program that you can join in on. If you and your carpool partner plan well, you could even combine errands on the way home from work once a week or every-other week to save you both time, fuel and money.

Guaranteed Ride Home
If you live in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis-St. Paul area, and you ride the bus or train, carpool, vanpool, bicycle or walk at least three days a week to work or school - you are eligible for the Guaranteed Ride Home program. This free program is administered by Metro Transit, A service of the Metropolitan Council.

If something unexpected should arise on a day you have carpooled, for example you have to work late, or leave early unexpectedly, the Guaranteed Ride Home makes sure you have a ride. This program can help alieveate some of the fears a person may have about carpooling. Go to www.metrotransit.org to register. In the mail you will receive two coupons every six months good for free emergency bus or train fare, or taxi cab fare reimbursement up to $25.

The bus will take the coupon instead of paying the regular fare. With the train, you will have to purchase a ticket and then send it along with your coupon in for reimbursement. The reimbursement policy also pertains to taxis - simply get a receipt from the driver and then mail it, along with a coupon, in and you will get your money back. From personal experience - the Guaranteed Ride Home program works!