New Jersey Proclaims September as Ridesharing Month
In an effort to encourage more New Jersey motorists to "double-up," on the roads, Governor Whitman has proclaimed September as Ridesharing Month. Throughout the month, the New Jersey Department of Transportation will be encouraging motorists to carpool and try alternate modes of transportation.
"Ridesharing saves time, money and headaches," said New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner Frank J. Wilson, "and it helps the environment at the same time. With sufficient public awareness, ridesharing is an idea that's going to sell itself."
In addition to reducing fuel expenses and conserving energy, ridesharing can help reduce commuting time and the wear and tear on vehicles and roads. Ridesharing also contributes to New Jersey's efforts to meet federal clean air goals by reducing the number of vehicles on the road and improving traffic flow.
NJDOT's promotional campaign, called "Are You Gonna Take It?," is designed to heighten public awareness of the benefits of ridesharing through print and radio media. A 60-second commercial will air through September 27, and print ads will run in various newspapers through September 29. The New Jersey Department of Transportation has also sponsored Shadow Traffic reports airing on 28 stations to promote ridesharing.
On September 12, a "radio tour" will feature a NJDOT representative promoting Ridesharing Month on radio stations throughout the New Jersey listening area. The Department is encouraging motorists to try alternate modes of travel, including public transit, walking or biking.
September will also mark another NJDOT initiative to encourage ridesharing. The second segment of the Route 287 High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane is scheduled to open on September 30. The additional lane will be available to vehicles with two or more passengers traveling northbound between Exit 35 and Route 80 during morning and evening rush hours.
More information on alternative commuting can be obtained through the New Jersey Department of Transportation at 1-800-245-P-O-O-L.
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