Regional Vanpool...

Regional Vanpool Feasibility Study
The CGRDC recently received a grant from DOT to conduct a regional vanpool feasibility study to ascertain the need for a regional (vanpool) system to benefit public and private business and industry and their employees that must commute to work.  A contract has been entered into with 2Plus, Inc., a vanpool/transportation consultant based in North Carolina, to conduct the study.  The study was initiated in October 2006 with an anticipated completion date of June 2007. 

Telephone and web-based surveys, one element of the feasibility study being conducted by 2Plus, solicited feedback from employers as to what they see are transportation issues/needs for the workforce and their employees. Employers were asked to complete a survey to help quantify their needs.   The Research and Development department with 2Plus, Inc. contacted a random sample from approximately 3,000 public and private businesses in the coastal region that employ 20 or more employees to gather statistical data to ascertain the need and to garner employer interest in participation if such a program were developed.   Over 300 surveys were completed with an overwhelmingly positive response in support of the vanpool program. 

A vanpool program in the coastal region would provide a convenient low-cost option for employees commuting from rural, outlying areas to work.  Vanpools would provide a reliable means of transportation; would reduce employee costs of maintenance and insurance of their own personal vehicles; and provide a period of rest and relaxation on the commute to and from work.

The vanpool program would be supported through fares paid by riders/employees that utilize the service and/or by the business and industries that participate in the program.  Both the riders and the employers would benefit from the tax incentives provided through the program.

A typical vanpool would consist of 5-8 employees traveling to the same destination at the same time; however, the typical vanpool structure can be modified to accommodate the identified need by increasing the number of employees participating per vanpool or arranging a vanpool to accommodate a group of employees from neighboring business entities with the same work schedule.   A van would be assigned to the group with one of the employees designated as the driver.  As an incentive, the employee/driver is provided the use of the van for private use and the cost of the ride for the driver/employee is free.

The employer that contributes to the vanpool program on behalf of their employees receives tax incentives for provision of this service to their employees.

The regional vanpool feasibility study is still in progress.  The CGRDC and 2Plus, Inc. welcomes your input in the design of a viable vanpool program in the coastal region. 

If you would like additional information about the Regional Vanpool Feasibility Study or if you would like to participate in the study and complete a survey please visit the website at www.CoastalGaVanpool.com.

Additional information about this project can be obtained by contacting Dr. Travis Bradshaw, Project Manager, 2Plus, Inc. at (877) 827-3732, or via email at travis@2plus.com.