News and Press Releases Tuesday, April 26, 2021

The Ada County Highway District's Commuteride is excited to bring back its annual May in Motion campaign. May in Motion brings together 100 organizations in the Treasure Valley to promote the use of smart commuting options. At the conclusion of May in Motion, participating organizations are recognized for their leadership in sustainable transportation practices. Awards are given based on the organization's employee participation, communication efforts to promote smart commute to their employees, and the incentives and benefits they provided.

In its 16th year, May in Motion brings awareness to the many smart commuting options available to Treasure Valley residents. These options include vanpool, carpool, transit, bike, and walking. In 2019, 1,661 people actively participated in May in Motion and decreased driving miles on Treasure Valley roads by 70,425 in May alone. Those miles would equate to about 889 tons of CO2 that would otherwise be released into the valley's air.

"We're excited to launch a revamped May in Motion campaign this year, supporting local employers and employees in realizing the benefits of smart commute options," said Commuteride Manager Tessa Greegor. "Through May in Motion, Commuteride provides employers with tools and resources, fun challenges, and educational events to encourage their employees to discover their commute options and try something new."

This year, May in Motion goals remain the same, with the strategies adjusted to ensure COVID best practices. Commuteride will conduct all May in Motion outreach virtually or in outdoor, socially distanced venues, adhering to all local and employer guidelines. Also new this year, Commuteride is including telework as an eligible smart commute mode.

"As the business community slowly brings employees back to the office, or maintains telework options, Commuteride looks forward to supporting local employers in developing sustainable commute programs to optimize the health and wellbeing of employees and our community," Greegor said.

Valley Regional Transit (VRT) will partner with Commuteride, providing no-cost bus rides for the entire month of May as part of the May in Motion campaign. The no-cost bus rides are available on the 18 fixed bus routes in Boise, the VRT OnDemand service in Nampa/Caldwell, and four inter-county bus routes between Ada County and Canyon County.

The May in Motion awards celebration will be held virtually or as a socially distanced event on June 17. Read more information about May in Motion and how to get involved in the campaign online.