Vanpools
Vanpools are usually a more formal arrangement
among a larger number of interested people
than are carpools. If you commute more
than 15 miles from home to work each way,
the cost savings from joining a vanpool
may offset the time involved for multiple
pickups and drop-offs.
Vanpools usually are created for up to
15 people, each of whom have a guaranteed
seat and share costs. The vanpool driver,
frequently a co-worker, usually rides
for free since it is his or her responsibility
to ensure the smooth functioning of the
vanpool. Just fill out the application.
NJ
TRANSIT sponsors vanpools in areas
where public transportation is neither
available nor feasible.
The three most common categories of vanpools
are: third party, employer-sponsored and
owner-operated.
Third party vanpools
In this arrangement, vehicles are owned
and operated by a for-profit vendor. The
vendor covers maintenance, insurance and
administration of the vanpool. The vanpool
members take care of promoting their van
and collecting fees.
Employer-sponsored
vanpools
The least expensive vanpooling option
is the employer-sponsored vanpool. Employers
purchase or lease the vans and arrange
for maintenance, insurance and administration.
Fares may also promote the program and
help organize the groups. Participation
is usually limited to employers of one
company.
Owner-operated vanpools
An owner-operated vanpool is owned by
one or more of the groups members
sometimes through a corporation
in order to protect the owner from personal
liability. The owner(s) arrange for maintenance,
insurance and billing.
Vanpools benefits for commuters
- Reduces gas, toll and insurance costs
- Reduces depreciation of your vehicle
- Reduces stress of commuting
- Allows you to relax
Vanpools benefits for employers
- Reduces parking needs and costs
- Reduces employee stress; improves
productivity
- Improves employee morale
- Reduces absenteeism and late arrival
Vanpools benefits the environment
- Reduce congestion
- Improve air quality
- Conserve energy
A free Rideshare
Matchlist for vanpooling is available.
NJ
TRANSIT Vanpool Sponsorship Program
NJ TRANSIT offers a statewide vanpool
sponsorship program, which provides a
financial incentive for vanpooling in
areas where public transportation is neither
available nor feasible. Each vanpool group
may be eligible for $175 per month of
sponsorship support.
Newly forming or existing vanpool groups
who obtain their vehicles from a participating
vanpool provider can apply for NJ TRANSIT
sponsorship through a Transportation
Management Association (TMA). There
is an application process and other minimal
reporting requirements to ensure that
the vanpool group meets eligibility standards.
For more information regarding NJ TRANSIT's
Statewide Vanpool Sponsorship program,
contact your local TMA at 1-800-245-POOL,
and they'll be happy to assist you.
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