CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NEWS RELEASE 2800 BERLIN TURNPIKE P.O. BOX 317546 NEWINGTON CONNECTICUT, 06131-7546

FOR RELEASE: May 9, 2014

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS TELEPHONE: (860) 594-3062 FAX: (860) 594-3065 WEB SITE: www.ct.gov/dot

CONNECTICUT COMMUTERS ENCOURAGED TO SHARE A RIDE DURING

CTrides WEEK, MAY 12 – 16, 2014

CTrides Week kicks off Monday, May 12 at Greater Bridgeport Transit

      The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is inviting Connecticut commuters to take part in a week-long challenge of trying alternative methods of travel for their daily commutes. For at least one day during CTrides Week from Monday, May 12 through Friday, May 16, 2014, commuters are asked to take advantage of various ride-sharing options instead of driving alone.  Commuters are also encouraged to visit www.CTrides.com and pledge to take advantage of the various ride-sharing and greener options that are available. 

      Governor Dannel P. Malloy declared May 12 – 16, 2014 as CTrides Week with an official proclamation for the State of Connecticut. CTrides Week is an initiative to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in Connecticut. Solitary drivers can also save time and money by telecommuting, taking a bus, train or by joining a carpool or vanpool. In addition, there are added health benefits for biking or walking instead of driving.

      To mark the official start of CTrides Week, an event is scheduled for Monday, May 12 from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at Greater Bridgeport Transit, One Cross Street in Bridgeport. The event will feature a kiosk with information on how commuters can get involved with CTrides Week, a photo opportunity for CTrides social media channels, information on commuting choices in Connecticut and an official kick-off ceremony with local representatives and partner organizations.

      “CTrides Week allows us the opportunity to inform Connecticut residents about the advantages of utilizing the various commuting options we have available,” said CTDOT Commissioner James Redeker. “This year’s theme is ‘Ride Green, Earn Green’ and is all about creating more awareness about the many rewards commuters can earn for participating in our programs.”

      Commuters participating in CTrides programs can track their miles and earn rewards for restaurant certificates and discounts, tickets to shows, sporting events, retail discounts and more.

      In addition to the kickoff event, there are also a series of events scheduled during the week to recognize and thank commuters at the Cromwell and Windsor Park & Ride lots, Union Station in New Haven, and at the Old State House in downtown Hartford.

      Sharing a ride has a direct impact on Connecticut’s air quality. An individual switching from a twenty mile roundtrip commute to public transportation can decrease CO² emissions by approximately 4,800 pounds per year. Furthermore, sharing a ride can afford a variety of benefits to commuters, including saving money on vehicle maintenance as well as the cost of parking and gas. A commuter who switches to public transportation will also have the added benefit of a less stressful commute and the opportunity to relax.

      Commissioner Redeker also added that taking advantage of CTrides’ programs reduces congestion on Connecticut roadways. “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.”

      CTrides can help residents and businesses find transit and ridesharing options and other greener ways to work or travel. For more information, please visit www.CTrides.com and stay-up-to-date on CTrides Week on Facebook.com/CTrides and Twitter @ CTrides.

About CTrides:

CTrides is a program of the Connecticut Department of Transportation designed to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality by providing information and services for alternatives to driving alone. Commuting alternatives include carpooling, vanpooling, public transit including bus and rail service, and telecommuting.  The service is free and anyone interested in signing up to take advantages of the rewards offered is encouraged to visit www.ctrides.com