University a best place to work for ‘alternative commuters’
In a recent announcement, the University of New Mexico has been identified by ABQRide -- the City of Albuquerque’s Transit Department – as one of the best places to work for “alternative commuters,” or those who travel to work using alternative means of transportation.
UNM will headline during Albuquerque’s upcoming “Strive Not to Drive” campaign, set for the week of May 11-15, during which people are encouraged to use and recommend alternative transportation to get around Albuquerque. A pledge card drive is a feature of “Strive Not To Drive” week, held concurrently with National Bike To Work Day on Friday, May 15.
“Mayor Martin Chavez and the City of Albuquerque are excited to work with UNM Parking and Transportation to get the word out about ‘Strive Not to Drive’ and the importance of students, faculty, and staff using alternative modes of transportation,” said Del Chavez, ABQRide marketing specialist.
UNM staff and faculty can pledge online at “Strive Not to Drive”. When filling out the form, individuals should list UNM as their employer as well as designating their specific department.
UNM Parking and Transportation Services (PATS) and ABQRide will track the number of pledges for each department and PATS will award a department level Zipcar membership to the department with the most pledges. UNM departments can have memberships and specify authorized users for their account. The service can be paid for using a University purchasing card. There are currently four vehicles placed around main campus. Hourly rates start at $8 an hour and include gas, insurance and mileage.
“Strive Not to Drive week is a great campaign because it encourages individuals to try taking the bus, the RailRunner, biking to work or carpooling," said Cynthia Martin, program planning manager for PATS. "For some, it may be the first time they have tried one of these modes of transportation - and that is an important experience. It is what the campaign is all about. For others, it might be a week to get out and show continued support for alternative transportation. The Zipcar drawing integrates very well with this campaign because the service provides an affordable, flexible option for alternative commuters."
For more information about Zipcar or the Strive Not to Drive campaign, contact
Danielle Gilliam, Parking and Transportation Services, 277-0461 or dgilliam@parking.unm.edu.
Media Contact: Benson Hendrix (505) 277-1816. E-Mail: bhendrix@unm.edu
Posted by scarr at May 7, 2009 02:31 PM