If you commute to the Corvallis campus from cities like Eugene, Salem, Portland, and Lebanon, driving together may offer benefits over a solo commute. It can be a convenient option that lets you share vehicle costs and take turns in the driver’s seat.
Jennifer Grant, who commutes from Eugene to OSU, finds vanpooling to be the best option for her. She and vanpool coordinator Nick Fleury describe vanpools as a cooperative where a group of people with similar work schedules share a ride. The time on the road together fosters a sense of community. Jennifer refers to her fellow vanpool members as her “Van Fam,” highlighting the friendships formed during their commutes.
How it works
A vanpool is like a carpool with a group of 5-15 commuters and a dedicated vehicle. One of the members serves as the coordinator and organizes participants to lease a van from a state-sponsored program. Riders pay a monthly fee, which is typically offset by a state subsidy. There are typically one or two main drivers. Often the vanpool’s members will agree to a reduced fare for the drivers and coordinator.
Participants can set their own schedule and agreements for what happens in the van. For instance, in the Eugene to Corvallis vanpool, members of the “van fam” agree not to use tobacco on board and not to be chronically late for departure times. They agree that it is OK to bring coffee in a covered mug, or to leave a travel pillow on the van.
Is vanpooling for me?
Starting a new vanpool is most practical for groups of five or more people with similar commutes and schedules. Coworkers who live somewhere without reliable public transportation, may find vanpooling is a good alternative to driving alone. Vanpool vehicles can park on the OSU Corvallis campus for $50 a year.
Vanpooling can offer a significant savings compared with driving alone, in addition to the other benefits of sharing a ride. Members share lease costs and fuel, typically paying between $100-$160 per month. Vanpoolers are also eligible for an emergency ride home program.
Share Your Commute
If you commute from Eugene to Corvallis, you can join the Van Fam! To learn more please contact vanpool coordinator Nick.
Commute from somewhere else and interested in sharing a ride with other Beavers? Please contact OSU Sustainable Transportation Coordinator Elza.
