The University of Texas at Arlington Office of Media Relations

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media contact: Sue Stevens, (817) 272-3317, sstevens@uta.edu

ARLINGTON - The University of Texas at Arlington is working with the Fort Worth Transportation Authority (The T) to help solve two problems that are in the news on a daily basis: air quality in the Fort Worth-Dallas area and the skyrocketing price of gasoline that is imposing a hardship on commuting employees and students.

Although Arlington is the largest city in the United Sates without public transportation, The T has vanpooling programs that can save the commuter an estimated $8,128.00 annually, based on a 55 mile round-trip commute. Vanpooling also helps reduce dangerous ozone levels that adversely affect air quality and public health. The T also maintains a data base that can help in establishing carpools.

Many people who might consider a ride-sharing program are deterred by concern about emergencies: a child getting sick at school or a work issue that demands unplanned overtime. Vanpool participants need not worry because The T has a “Guaranteed Ride Home Program (GRHP.) Participants receive GRHP calling cards that entitle the holder to call Yellow Cab to be returned home or to a park and ride lot for a $5 co-pay. The T covers the balance.

The campus community will have numerous opportunities, including upcoming registrations, Staff Advisory Council events and employee orientations, to fill out a “Rideshare Commute Options” card, the first step to joining a ridesharing program.

The Dallas Morning News recently interviewed vanpoolers on their experiences in the program. Read the story here.

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