NEW TRANSIT OPTIONS FOR SUBURBS

By Ella Tyler

The Houston-Galveston Area Council is a partner with regional transportation agencies in a program called “Commute Solutions”, a one-stop alternative transportation resource in the Houston-Galveston area. The program’s staff provides advice, answers and assistance on commuting options and employee transportation programs.

August is “Commute Solutions Month”. In the “My Solution Is…” pledge campaign, commuters promise to participate a commute alternative this month. To take the pledge, go online. You will be offered choices such as: car pooling to work or school, walking or biking, telecommuting, using mass transit and several others. You can also propose your own solution – mine is going to be “to shop close to home.” Anyone who makes a pledge on the website will receive a coupon for a free Jamba Juice, the chance to win a $1,000 gas gift card, and discounts for Houston Dynamo tickets.

One interesting program is NuRide – an online program that enables ride-sharing whenever and wherever you like, and offers rewards such as gift cards and movie tickets. Check out the program’s website.

In the Huntsville area, the Sam SHuttle begins service on Monday. Two shuttles will go from Sam Houston State University to the Woodlands with stops at League Line Road and I-45, Lone Star College on Highway 242, and the Portofino Shopping Center. A round trip ticket will cost $8. Riders do not have to be affiliated with the school. For details, go online.

METRO has been offering park and ride service from Baytown to downtown Houston since October and a local service for the Baytown area began last month. The Baytown Circular usually operates on weekdays, but it will run this weekend for the sales tax holiday. For information about that route, see METRO’s website.

A quick jaunt through Commute Solutions website shows a variety of alternatives to one man – one car. There is a list and map of area park and ride lots, resources for employers who want to offer teleworking, and a list of best workplaces for commuters. As part of your back to school preparations, check out SchoolPool.

Commute Solutions offers a free ride back home for people who use its program in case of emergency.