Thompson Rivers University

New solution for sustainable commuting

December 2, 2015

Thinking about retiring your bike for the winter? TRU's new Rideshare program can help you find a carpool—or maybe a cycling buddy to keep you motivated in winter weather.

In the past, carpooling to TRU has been difficult to arrange—under-utilized, inconsistent, and not very well-known. However, with rising parking and transportation costs, and a growing understanding of the need to lessen our individual ill effects on the environment, ride-sharing is more in demand than ever.

With this in mind, TRU Facilities Services and the Office of Environment and Sustainability are delighted to introduce TRU Rideshare—a new online carpooling solution for students, staff and faculty.

Online registration is now open, and volunteers will be in Student Street in Old Main and other locations around campus this week taking registrations in person, as well as addressing classes. (Look for their bright green scarves.) Registrants will receive a free coffee/tea voucher, and be entered into a draw for an Apple iPad mini. Registration takes less than five minutes, and does not oblige anyone to participate in the Rideshare program.

Similar Rideshare programs have been used successfully at other Canadian campuses for years. The online program is easy to understand, and simple to use with any digital device. Rideshare isn’t just for vehicle drivers and passengers either; it’s for everyone who commutes to campus in any way. Take advantage of opportunities to meet new people, have security in numbers, or simply enjoy someone’s company—whether you’re driving, biking, taking transit or walking. Read the Rideshare FAQs for more info.

The TRU Students’ Union (TRUSU) played a large part in the researching of this alternative option. When they realized that the existing system wasn’t being used and a new system was needed, they did substantial research, trials, and surveys of multiple vendors before making a recommendation to TRU. The Sustainability office and Facilities are funding, promoting, and operating the new TRU Rideshare service.

Contact:

Brandon Dallamore
TRU Facilities Services
Email: bdallamore@tru.ca

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