The Connecticut Department of Transportation kicked off its annual CTrides green transportation initiative yesterday in Stamford alongside city officials, businesses and community members.
“Over 36,000 commuters have engaged in the CTrides challenge since 2005 and, this year, we are hoping to inspire even more individuals and companies to participate,” said James Redeker, commissioner of the department of transportation.
This year Redeker’s department is asking commuters to participate in the week-long challenge and find greener alternatives to commute and travel such as carpooling, biking and riding the train to work for at least one day.
As an incentive, commuters are asked to pledge a new, green commute at CTrides.com. Once they pledge, they can track their trip using the CTrides commuter reward program and redeem points toward gift certificates, retail discounts, tickets to shows and more. Additionally, prizes will be raffled off to anyone who pledges. Sponsors include the Connecticut Beardsley Zoo, Peapod (Stop & Shop), Eve”™s Addiction, Splash Car Wash, SportsCenter of Connecticut, Wadsworth Atheneum and NuRide.
Employers and their businesses are also urged to participate. Companies will be recognized in the following categories: most employees who pledged a trip, most employees who tracked a trip, highest percentage of employees who pledged a trip, highest percentage of employees who tracked a trip and employer with the most miles saved not driving alone.
“We can all do our part and benefit from fewer solitary drivers on the roads. I urge everyone to consider participating in CTrides Week and experience the advantages of a greener commute,” said Redeker.
