State-wide Event Recognizes Employers and Rewards Commuters for

Taking Greener Forms of Commuting that Reduce Traffic and Emissions

Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Joseph F. Marie today announced the “Earth Day Commuter Challenge,” a state-wide initiative that encourages commuters to take greener forms of commuting between now and Earth Day.  The “Earth Day Commuter Challenge” is an expansion of last year’s highly successful “Tri-State Rideshare Challenge” and tracks all forms of green commuting including carpooling, vanpooling, telecommuting, biking, walking and taking public transportation.

“In these tough economic times it is important to help Connecticut commuters save money while getting the most out of our transportation infrastructure,” said Commissioner Marie. “And with this unique event we can help Connecticut commuters save on gas, groceries and other essentials while reducing traffic and emissions throughout the state.”

Commuters who participate in the event will also be eligible to earn rewards from local and national sponsors including over a dozen grand prizes of $100 in groceries from Peapod by Stop & Shop.  “Peapod has been helping Connecticut families save money and cut down on their driving for years,” said Peapod Marketing Director Peg Merzbacher, “and we are honored to be able to step up this year and support Governor Rell’s commuter challenge by rewarding Connecticut commuters for taking a greener commute.”

Participating employers will also have the results from their employees tallied on a special web site, with the winning employers receiving awards and recognition at the conclusion of the event.  To learn more about the event, please visit www.earthdaycommuterchallenge.com.