UF chosen for EPA’s best workplace for commuters list
May 23, 2006
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has named the University of Florida as one of the best workplaces for commuters among colleges and universities.
For the first time, the EPA has released a national list of innovative college and university employers committed to improving air quality, saving energy and reducing traffic congestion while improving quality of life for employees.
“We were very pleased to be accepted and realized that we were to be in very good company,” said Ron Fuller, assistant director of UF’s Transportation and Parking Services. “We are the only college or university in the state of Florida to be recognized.”
UF is one of 72 campuses nationwide designated as best workplaces for commuters. According to EPA, these academic institutions distinguish themselves from the competition and demonstrate their environmental leadership by offering outstanding commuter benefits meeting EPA’s National Standard of Excellence.
UF was chosen based on the following initiatives it provides to encourage alternative modes of transportation:
- A carpool program, where three-person carpools enjoy free parking at convenient locations throughout campus. Two-person carpools also are encouraged with a reduced rate for parking decals. The Transportation and Parking Services office provides an emergency ride home program during normal business hours and will pay for a cab if the need extends beyond the normal business day. Additionally, each member is given four single-day permits per semester for times they are unable to carpool.
- Free use of the Regional Transit System, paid for by the university administration, for all students and employees. It includes service to the campus, the city of Gainesville and some unincorporated areas of Alachua County.
- An extensive system of bicycle lanes and paths. No decal or registration is required for bicycles, and plenty of parking is available.
- A campus core with shaded walks and restricted auto access, new sidewalks and bus shelters to encourage walking. In collaboration with the city of Gainesville, the university has helped pay for construction of off-campus sidewalks to make walking to campus easier.
- A reduced-price decal and parking availability in virtually all parking areas for motorcycles and scooters.
- Increased number of electric cars. The university’s initiative on sustainability requires that all new vehicle purchases be a hybrid or alternative fuel vehicle, unless one is not available for the intended use.
To qualify for the EPA list, the organizations must provide:
- At least one primary commuter benefit, which can include a monthly transit/van pool pass subsidy, cash in lieu of free parking, or a significant telework program.
- At least three supporting commuter benefits, which can include carpool/vanpool incentives, lockers/showers for bikers or walkers, incentives for living near work, or onsite amenities such as day care or dry cleaning.
- A central point of contact for information, who actively informs employees of available commuter benefits.
- Access to a regional or employer-provided emergency/guaranteed ride home program.
University of Florida President Bernie Machen has made sustainability in campus operations a priority, including in employee transportation.
“Programs are the most effective when a mandate from the top meets with grassroots support — those are the opportunities for sustainable change,” said Dedee DeLongpré, director of UF’s Office of Sustainability. “We have a responsibility to try to get our employees to and from campus without having a negative impact on the city or county.”
A complete list of best workplaces for commuters among colleges and universities is available at http://www.bwc.gov.