Posts tagged with commuter prizes
New data from the Georgia Department of Transportation shows commuting habits in metro Atlanta have changed since 2007. Fewer commuters are choosing to drive alone, and telework has become a “go-to” option for a growing number of Atlantans, surpassing carpooling and vanpooling for the first time as the primary alternative to solo driving.
Recently, we had the opportunity to catch up with Sharon Terry, who teleworks five days a week from her home office in Henry County. Sharon, a nurse case manager in the national accounts department of Anthem/Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGa), a Buckhead Area TMA partner, has been participating in her company’s telework program since October 2009. When she does need to make the 45-mile trek into the company’s Atlanta office once or twice a month, she typically carpools with another co-worker or takes MARTA. BCBSGa provides monthly MARTA passes for its employees free of charge.
Q&A
CAC: Recent data from the 2010 Metro Atlanta Regional Commuter Survey shows that the percentage of frequent teleworkers has increased by 75 percent in just three years. Why did you decide to join that group and begin teleworking?
ST: I decided to start teleworking when my department offered the opportunity. I live 45 miles from the office and a good day’s commute would take an average of one hour. However, a typical city commute can quickly turn into a 1.5- to 2-hour commute. Having a young child at home, I felt the time spent on commuting could be spent with family and a balanced life, which my company supports.
CAC: In addition to doing your part to improve the air we breathe, what are some of the other benefits you have found by teleworking?
ST: I am so excited to telework. My stress level has significantly decreased since teleworking. My productivity is up because I can work earlier/later when needed. I don’t have to consider travel time and if there are any travel alerts. I was pleased with my job, but teleworking makes it even more exciting. I can actually spend my time with family and exercising, rather than sitting in a car for long periods of time.
CAC: How much money and time would you estimate you save per month by teleworking?
ST: I have saved approximately 11 to 13 hours of time a week and an average of $50 per week in gas. I have saved also with decreased oil changes and maintenance on my car.
CAC: Do you log your clean commute trips with The Clean Air Campaign? If so, have you ever won anything through the Commuter Rewards incentive program?
ST: Yes, I log my commute daily with The Clean Air Campaign. I have also won $25 gift cards in the past with the incentive program and the initial cash incentive.
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