Overview
On June 17, 2010, the American public, employers, public transportation agencies and commuter assistance programs will observe national Dump the Pump Day.
In this tough economy and with concerns about the Gulf oil spill mounting, everyone is looking for a way to save money and protect the environment.
National Dump the Pump Day encourages people to ride public transportation (instead of driving) and save money. If public transit isn’t an option, consider carpooling, biking, walking, or telework.
The latest American Public Transit Association (APTA) Transit Savings Report shows that a two car household that downsizes to one car can save – on the average – more than $9,000 a year.
The average household spends 18 cents of every dollar on transportation, and 94% of this goes to buying, maintaining, and operating cars — the largest expenditure after housing.
For more information about public transit in the Tallahassee area, visit the StarMetro website. If you’re interested in carpooling or vanpooling, simply complete an online ridematch form today.
Remember, if you ride the bus, carpool, bike, or walk to work at least 3 days per week, you qualify for Commuter Services’ free Emergency Ride Home Program.
Other Facts
- Public transportation saves in excess of 37 million metric tons of carbon dioxide annually.
- For every $1 invested in public transportation, $4 is generated in economic returns.
- The average American can save $9000 by riding the bus instead of driving alone and by living with one less car.
- Carpooling with just one other person to and from work can reduce your commuting costs by at least 50%.
- Biking and walking are the cleanest forms of “alternative” transportation and the health benefits are amazing.
To learn more about national Dump the Pump activities, please visit the American Public Transportation Association website.
Promote Dump the Pump Day at Work
Work trips represent the biggest percentage of miles driven on a daily basis. Employers can help minimize the associated economic and environmental costs by promoting commute options at their work site.
If you’re interested in promoting Dump the Pump at your work site or if you’d like to implement a more long-term plan, please contact Commuter Services at 1-888-454-RIDE. In the meantime, please print and distribute a Dump the Pump flyer at your work site. Sometimes pointing people in the right direction can have amazing results.
