September 13, 2021
PHOENIX— Nearly one year ago, more than a thousand Valley residents participated in the Valley’s annual Rideshare Month Commuter Challenge. It not only resulted in a savings of emissions, time and money, participants shaved off 609,000 calories by biking and walking instead of driving. That’s equal to more than 2,000 slices of pizza! The intent of Rideshare Month is to start a new healthy habit, while also supporting Travel Reduction Program goals.
“Studies show that sharing the ride reduces stress, helps save time and money, and improves overall air quality and traffic congestion,” said Abigail Cooksey-Williams, Commute Solutions Manager at Valley Metro. “Then, we like to add in a little more fun by offering multiple chances to win prizes if you participate.”
Commuters who take the pledge at ShareTheRide.com through September 30 will have a chance to win a $25 gift card. They can also sign up and track trips in October during the commuter challenge for the chance to win more prizes. There will also be special contests for followers of the ShareTheRideandSave Facebook page.
ShareTheRide.com is a self-guided website that provides commuters with a variety of options on how they can make their trip to work cleaner and greener. The website connects commuters to nearby carpools, vanpools, bike/walk or telework options and provides the most efficient public transit routes that fit their schedules.
In addition to the contests on ShareTheRide.com, movie-goers at Harkins Theatres will view a pre-show public service announcement (PSA) that includes a contest to win free movie tickets. The animated PSA will run from mid-September through mid-October. Those who take a photo of the video PSA and post it online with the hashtag #RideshareMonth2021, along with the name of their favorite transportation-themed movie, will have yet another chance to win a prize.