CALL FOR ENTRIES ISSUED FOR HOUSTON’S SECOND ANNUAL “BEST WORKPLACES FOR COMMUTERS” LIST

H-GAC’s program asks employers to take the jam out of traffic, help employees save on gas, and be part of the air quality solution

HOUSTON (May 3, 2004) – Commute Solutions, a program of the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC), is encouraging employers in the Houston-Galveston region to submit entries to become a recognized Best Workplace for Commuters, a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency designation. Companies that make the list demonstrate their ongoing commitment to improving the quality of life for employees by offering commuter benefits, while at the same time contributing to improved air quality throughout the region. Participating employers create a win-win situation, as they receive tax benefits while employees cut down on traffic-related stress.

“As our region’s roadways continue to become more crowded, we want employers to experience the advantages of providing commuter benefits to employees,” said Shelley Whitworth, Transportation Department Program Manager for H-GAC. “Whether it is providing transit passes, vanpool incentives or teleworking, there are a multitude of options available for businesses of any size and type to help employees save time and money, as well as reduce the stress associated with traffic congestion.”

Employers may qualify either through a review of their existing commuter benefits or by receiving assistance in adopting commuter benefits. Criteria for “Best Workplace for Commuters” recognition include:

• At least one primary commuter benefit, including:
  • a $30 minimum monthly transit/vanpool pass subsidy to employees
  • monetary compensation to employees as a trade-out for free or subsidized parking,
  • a teleworking program that reduces 6 percent of monthly commute trips
• Depending on employer size, up to three supporting benefits, which can be anything from participating in a regional transportation or air quality program to providing shuttles from transit stations

A central point of contact within the company that actively informs employees of available commuter benefits

To become a Best Workplace for Commuters, employers can contact Commute Solutions:

• Call (713) 993-4581
• E-mail bwc@h-gac.com

Best Workplaces for Commuters kicked off in the Houston area last year, and thus far 30 employers (see complete list below) have earned the title. The program is sponsored and evaluated by the EPA.

About Commute Solutions
Commute Solutions, a program of the Houston-Galveston Area Council, is the one-stop resource in the eight-county Houston area that provides commuters and employers with free advice and assistance on ALL commuting options. Its available programs include vanpooling, regional mass transit, teleworking, carpooling, biking and walking, alternative work schedules, and Guaranteed RideHome program.

In addition, Commute Solutions helps employers save tax dollars by developing transportation benefit programs for their employees, with available grants as well as many consulting services offered free of charge.

About Houston-Galveston Area Council
The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) is a voluntary association of local governments and local elected officials from the 13-county Gulf Coast Planning Region—an area of 12,500 square miles with more than 5 million people. H-GAC works to promote efficient and accountable use of local, state and federal tax dollars; serves as a problem-solving and information forum for local governments; and helps local governments, businesses and civic organizations analyze trends and conditions affecting the area in order to respond to their needs.

Current Houston Best Workplaces for Commuters

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