Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM), in partnership with Pierce Transit and Intercity Transit, will be rolling out a commuter vanpool program as part of an I-5 traffic congestion relief initiative.

Beginning this summer, 25 vanpools will be available as commute alternatives for Soldiers who live off base and government employees.

"You only need five people to start a vanpool," said Kim Pontsler, a Pierce Transit vanpool coordinator. "The more passengers in a vanpool, the more the subsidy pays for roundtrip miles," she said. "In fact, because of a federal grant, Soldiers can ride for free and the fares include fuel, insurance, and the costs of maintenance."

Vanpools carry up to14 passengers (excluding the driver, whose fare is waived in exchange for driving). Designated drivers may also use the vehicle for personal use and receive preferential parking on base; there are also incentives such as Starbucks and Target gift cards for riders.  

"If you can't find people for a vanpool,contact your Employee Transportation Coordinator (ETC)," said Lynne Cunningham, a vanpool coordinator. "here are 15 ETCs on JBLM that can help with ride matching."

Riders also have transportation alternatives during the workday, such as the JBLM Duty Shuttle, which operates on an hourly circuit and on two routes across base. There is also the emergency ride home program.

"Vanpoolers can establish their own, made-to-order routes and even use park and rides on the way to JBLM," said Pontsler.

"A 16-mile roundtrip commute costs $250 in gas alone," said Cunningham, "not to mention the wear and tear on cars. We (have) already had successes with the two vanpools currently on base." 

For ETC information call Makieda Hart at (253) 967-7301 or Miriam Easley at (253) 966-1734 for JBLM's shuttle. For Pierce Transit call (253) 983-2724 or 3321.