More than 50 Maricopa County Travel Reduction Program employers and individuals took center stage to be recognized for their exceptional clean air activities this year at the 29th Annual Clean Air Campaign Awards and Luncheon. In attendance were nearly 500 guests who continually support and promote trip-savings as a way to keep pollution from Valley skies.
“It’s our honor to recognize the many local employers and their employees who are making a commitment to help improve air quality and reduce congestion in the Valley,” said Valley Metro interim CEO Scott Smith. “They are very dedicated to making a difference for all of us as they carpool, vanpool, walk, bike or ride transit to work or school.”
According to the Valley Metro Transportation Demand Management survey, about one fifth (21%) of employed residents or students carpool, which is the highest level since 2008. At the same time, there are nearly 400 Valley Metro vanpools in operation that help save 4.3 million of drive alone miles and 175,000 gallons of fuel each month.
“While riding the bus and train, I pay bills, study and hunt for Pokemon,” said Gustavo Garcia with Charles Schwab in Phoenix. “The best part, though, it saves me more than $300 in fuel each month.” Garcia is the recipient of the Outstanding Transit Rider award and takes transit to work five days a week.
