511NY Rideshare Statewide - OLD (4/2022)511NY Rideshare Statewide - OLD (4/2022)https://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=54287102024-03-29T07:33:53Z2024-03-29T07:33:53ZCar Free Day 2021Cara Politihttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=152097692021-11-12T15:57:13Z2021-11-10T20:31:00Z<p><img data-fileentryid="15209796" src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/cfd+2021.png/fb027984-bf5d-3abe-a7f2-80d31aecc688?imagePreview=1" style="height: auto; width: 362px; display: inline-block; float: left; margin-right: 1.2rem;" width="362" /></p>
<p>Car Free Day encourages participants to reduce their driving and choose alternate means of getting around, such as biking, walking, vanpooling, teleworking, riding a train, bus, or subway, or driving an electric vehicle for one day, September 22. </p>
<h3>Car Free Day Events</h3>
<p>On Long Island, the 511NY Rideshare team partnered with <u>Transit Solutions</u> to promote Car Free Day and hosted or participated in <b>22 in-person and virtual</b> Car Free Day events throughout August and September.</p>
<p>During the week of Car Free Day, 511NY Rideshare facilitated a pilot offering free on-demand electric shuttle rides from <u>Circuit</u> throughout the Hauppauge Industrial Park,<em><b> </b></em><em>which</em><em><b> </b></em>averaged fifteen rides per day. Using the free shuttle throughout the park was a fun way to get around and helped to reduce traffic congestion, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, reduce stress and individuals were able to get a bit of fresh air!</p>
<p>In the Hudson Valley, 511NY Rideshare facilitated micro-mobility (bike share, e-scooters) demonstrations with <u>Bewegen</u> and <u>Veo Ride</u> in Westchester, Orange, and Dutchess Counties.</p>
<p>511NY Rideshare also launched a Preferred Parking Program with the Municipal Housing Authority for the City of Yonkers (MHACY).</p>
<p>To round out the promotion of Car Free Day, 511NY Rideshare hosted various webinars across the state including a Climate Roundtable webinar, Lets Move LI Long Island Active Transportation Initiative webinar, and monthly Car Free Day planning committee webinars.<b><i></i></b></p>
<p><b><i>Thank you again for participating in Car Free Day 2021—we look forward to 2022!</i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Cara Politi2021-11-10T20:31:00ZReturn-to-Worksite ConsiderationsCara Politihttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=138982452021-10-05T17:37:55Z2021-05-13T13:52:00Z<div>
<p>We've learned over the past 18 months that many jobs can be done successfully from anywhere. With new COVID variants impacting reopening plans across the state, we checked in with our 511NY Rideshare partners to learn more about their current work arrangements, and plans moving. We hope their stories can help you evaluate your own worksite needs and plan for the future.</p>
<hr />
<p>Here's what we learned from our partners:</p>
<h3>SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University</h3>
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<p>SUNY Downstate – a medical school in Brooklyn, requires vaccines for all employees, staff, faculty, and students. Employees have been back since July, and undergrads returned at the end of the summer. The campus hasn't changed its plans because of new variants, and most classes will be held in person. Students will be allowed to eat indoors with social distancing or eat outside. Some programs, such as nursing, are still virtual. The university is working to boost morale by offering live music and events—hosted safely outside.</p>
<p><i></i></p>
<p><i>"I love being on campus with the students. My commute is over an hour, but I don't mind because I read my book. I've heard the traffic is worse than ever, so I'm happy to take the trains."</i><br />
<i></i><b>-Adam B., Assistant Director of Student Activities</b></p>
<hr />
<h3>Chinese American Independent Practice Association (CAIPA)</h3>
</div>
</div>
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<p>The Chinese American Independent Practice Association in New York City shared that their employees have concerns about returning to the office. In recent months, employees have voiced that they prefer to work full time at home and do not want to return to the office, so CAIPA has adjusted their return-to-office plans. Some have said that they will look for another job if forced to come back into an office. </p>
<p>"<i>CAIPA's initial reopening plan was to come back in a hybrid model, three days in office and two days teleworking after Labor Day. Now with the uptick of Covid, we are pushing it back one to two months but could be longer.</i>"<br />
<b>- Kiko L., Human Recourses Manager</b></p>
<hr />
<h3>Farmingdale State College </h3>
<p>At Farmingdale State College on Long Island, all staff, faculty, and students are required to be vaccinated and wear masks indoors. Visitors are also required to follow health and safety protocols—including always wearing masks when indoors regardless of vaccination status. Visitors attending outdoor events must show proof of vaccination.</p>
<p><i>"Faculty will be back on campus full time. Students will follow a hybrid method of in-person and virtual instruction."</i><i></i><br />
<strong><i>- </i>Katy T., Chief Enrollment & Strategy Officer</strong></p>
<div>
<p class="portlet-msg-info"><img data-fileentryid="15140561" src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/image.png/3d00e8cb-c174-829b-22db-b4e2ea366b66" style="display: inline-block; float: left; margin-right: 1.2rem;" />In a September 2021 survey conducted with 511NY Rideshare partner organizations, 59% said they plan to function in a hybrid capacity with employees splitting time between their home and worksite. <br />
<br />
<strong>What is your organization planning? Let us know in the comments below!</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<h3>State Colleges and Universities (SUNY/CUNY Schools)</h3>
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<p>All students taking part in in-person learning at CUNY or SUNY schools are required to be vaccinated. Schools have returned to in-person learning for students, with some classes and activities remaining virtual.</p>
<p><em>"I am in-person for three of my classes and the other two are virtual. Having some in-person classes is a hard transition after covid, but it gives students the opportunity to connect with professors and makes learning easier." </em><br />
<strong>- Sophia B., Sophomore at SUNY Oneonta</strong></p>
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<p><a>The 511NY Rideshare team is here to provide resources and information to help guide your planning process and make the transition back easier and enjoyable. </a></p>
<p>Our team is comprised of transportation experts across the state who will effectively help you address your organization’s needs – whether you need assistance implementing a hybrid schedule, maintaining long-term telework productivity, or improving your teams' commutes for in-person work.</p>
<p>Visit our <a href="https://511nyrideshare.org/web/statewide-511ny-rideshare/reopening-resources">Reopening Resources</a> page for more information, and contact us at <a href="mailto:info@511NYRideshare.org">info@511NYRideshare.org</a> to be connected with your local 511NY Rideshare representative.</p>
</div>
</div>
</div>Cara Politi2021-05-13T13:52:00ZEarth Month 2021Cara Politihttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=145209672021-05-03T10:09:46Z2021-05-03T09:41:00Z<p>Throughout April, 482 people<a
href="https://511nyrideshare.org/web/statewide-511ny-rideshare/earth-month">
pledged to take part in at least one environmentally-conscious activity</a>, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Participating in Meatless Monday</p></li>
<li>
<p>Using reusable products (bags, mugs, water bottles)</p></li>
<li>
<p>Combining errands to cut down on driving</p></li>
<li>
<p>Taking public transit instead of driving</p></li>
<li>
<p>Walking or biking instead of driving</p></li>
<li>
<p>Turning the thermostat up or down 2 degrees</p></li>
<li>
<p>Starting or maintaining kitchen composting</p></li>
<li>
<p>Switching to LED lightbulbs</p></li></ul>
<p>Together, our members completed 2,177 environmentally conscious
activities, leading to a 44,112 metric ton reduction in carbon
emissions, and a 107,442 reduction in vehicle miles traveled. </p>
<hr />
<p>
<img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/Sarah%40BrooklynCollege4.jpg/eae8edb0-3b78-1eab-6993-51a4be93f320"
style="height: auto;width: 126.0px;" /> <img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/ItmarLevy%40Amazon-DoNotUse.jpg/cbf6cb0f-5e4b-988f-9ffb-43ae7cc552bb"
style="height: auto;width: 107.0px;" /> <img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/mkovoor%40northwell.edu%7EGarden+Artichokes.jpg/14c39548-63e0-97c3-5d0b-2634c03a98e0"
style="height: auto;width: 134.0px;" /> <img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/jwright26%40northwell.edu%7EIMG_2526.jpg/270602aa-06cf-9f62-0890-97dec520881f"
style="height: auto;width: 155.0px;" /> <img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/misako.dreibelbis%40dec.ny.gov%7ETanukiBus.jpg/9d077335-5978-5346-c90d-dcd14dc28f01"
style="height: auto;width: 88.0px;" /> <img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/Nnikolis%40northwell.edu%7E2FA9E355-E751-4F41-9AC7-2054D6619A3F.jpeg/5d1033b7-27d2-25f6-e89e-680a5d4add68" style="height: auto;width: 134.0px;" />
<img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/jpadavan%40northwell.edu%7ETulips.jpg/b4b1099d-1d0d-3cbc-c652-e7d3adf6e4fc"
style="height: auto;width: 134.0px;" /> <img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/vjacob1%40northwell.edu%7EMeatless+Monday.jpg/f3493d31-5a94-17d4-fa0b-c49fe5b47b0a"
style="height: auto;width: 88.0px;" /> <img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/KikiChen%40CAPIA.jpg/a5a6fd17-e314-1faf-1926-a043c2c4ad86"
style="height: auto;width: 103.0px;" /> <img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/Bmoore5%40Northwell.edu%7E20210409_173317.jpg/27cc9c50-3fbf-2c77-e55a-a2bfebcd8999"
style="height: auto;width: 103.0px;" /> <img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/SarahSantos%40BrooklynCollege.jpg/25acba04-a6cf-f326-f8e9-753bed9b5eec"
style="height: auto;width: 103.0px;" /> <img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/cames1%40northwell.edu%7Eimage.jpg/d1d6279d-e1f5-9244-6017-f21dbf0828f5"
style="height: auto;width: 100.0px;" /> <img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/Alexis%40ConcordeMedicalGroup.jpg/c1da75df-aeb4-08cb-1555-adbfdd951e93" style="height: auto;width: 111.0px;" /></p>
<p>
<em>Thank you to everyone who submitted photos of them celebrating
Earth Month! </em></p>
<hr />
<p>Across the state, the 511NY Rideshare team hosted Earth Month
planning webinars with more than 100 participating organizations.
Check out some of the unique ways our partners celebrated Earth Month
this year:</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>
<img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/Earth+Month+Kick+Off+1.jpg/b97b2949-9f68-5d59-db33-042572700acd"
style="height: auto;width: 278.0px;float: right;" />Mount Saint
Mary College, Farmingdale State College, Suffolk County Community
College, and Adelphi University hosted virtual challenges</p></li>
<li>
<p>Mercy College & Mercy College Environmental Alliance built
and launched a community garden</p></li>
<li>
<p>The Village of Dobbs Ferry hosted a Transportation Trivia Night</p></li>
<li>
<p>Flower Turbines hosted a virtual reality bike event exploring
Long Island</p></li>
<li>
<p>Suffolk County hosted a virtual event promoting Bus Rapid Transit</p></li>
<li>
<p>Port Authority of NY and NJ hosted a virtual reality Earth Day
trivia contest</p></li>
<li>
<p>Amazon Manhattan hosted a virtual event about biking in NYC</p></li></ul>
<p>We also recognized Northwell Health for receiving the most employee
pledges, CAIPA MSO for reducing the most greenhouse gas emissions per
capita, Brooklyn College for the best photo submission, and NYU
Langone Health for making the most impressive long-term plans during
the month.</p>
<p>Thank you to everyone who made Earth Month 2021 a huge success!</p>
<p> </p>Cara Politi2021-05-03T09:41:00ZMay is National Bike MonthCara Politihttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=138982352021-05-18T13:57:58Z2021-04-06T13:52:00Z<p><img data-fileentryid="13899328" src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/IMG_8012+from+event+on+9-9.jpeg/602d3aad-ed71-b39f-bc80-03c75563ca50?imagePreview=1" style="height: auto; width: 181px; display: inline-block; float: left; margin-right: 1.2rem;" width="181" />Since June 2020, the 511NY Rideshare team, with our partners at Clean Air NY, NYCDOT, and Bike NY have hosted 33 virtual biking events. These events allowed us to distribute 5,275 bike helmets and register 802 new 511NY Rideshare members. </p>
<p>After their virtual biking event, SUNY Downstate Health Science University Employees said:</p>
<p><strong><em>"This was very helpful to better plan my ride to work and possibly some weekend rides with the family. I learned a bit about bike maintenance as well. I'll take mine to the shop since it's been sitting unused for a while."</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>"The webinar was incredibly informative for me as a pedestrian, a driver, and a cyclist."</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>"[I'm] inspired to start biking more." </em></strong></p>
<p><img data-fileentryid="14520977" src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/ItmarLevy%40Amazon-DoNotUse.jpg/cbf6cb0f-5e4b-988f-9ffb-43ae7cc552bb?imagePreview=1" style="height: auto; width: 152px;" width="152" /> <img data-fileentryid="14521598" src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/Alexis%40ConcordeMedicalGroup.jpg/c1da75df-aeb4-08cb-1555-adbfdd951e93?imagePreview=1" style="height: auto; width: 133px;" width="133" /> <img data-fileentryid="14870729" src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/erfeivor%40gmail.com%7ED3B1F5D1-A8BE-4C4E-AC2D-8D4C903F694E.jpeg/e680e382-c735-16ba-76f3-e8c502c394f1?imagePreview=1" style="height: auto; width: 118px;" width="118" /> <img data-fileentryid="14521509" src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/jwright26%40northwell.edu%7EIMG_2526.jpg/270602aa-06cf-9f62-0890-97dec520881f?imagePreview=1" style="height: auto; width: 177px;" width="177" /> <img data-fileentryid="14870724" src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/clement%40clip.bike%7EIMG_E40BD801FB61-1.jpeg/aeaa135e-1688-773c-8590-973db2063795?imagePreview=1" style="height: auto; width: 132px;" width="132" /> <br />
<cite>Member submitted biking photos - tag us on social media or send yours to <a href="mailto:info@511NYRideshare.org">info@511NYRideshare.org</a>! </cite></p>
<p>The 511NY Rideshare team will continue to encourage our members and all New Yorkers to bike more for the rest of Bike Month and beyond - whether for commuting, errands, or recreation. When our members bike, they help us to reach our mission of improving air quality and mobility across the state.</p>
<p>511NY Rideshare’s <a href="https://511nyrideshare.org/web/statewide-511ny-rideshare/biking">biking resources pages</a> are kept up to date with comprehensive maps, regulations, and local services for every region in New York State. </p>
<p>Contact our team at <a href="mailto:info@511nyrideshare.org">info@511NYRideshare.org</a> for assistance or to schedule an event at your worksite or organization.</p>
<p> <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</p>
<p><i>511NY Rideshare is sponsored by the New York State Department of Transportation to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality by connecting people to resources to help them understand the impact of their transportation choices, and empower them to bike, take public transit, carpool, or walk instead of driving alone. </i></p>Cara Politi2021-04-06T13:52:00ZSmart Travel Badge DriveCara Politihttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=114532572020-12-15T12:03:10Z2020-12-14T09:53:00Z<p>On November 9, the 511NY Rideshare team launched our first-ever Smart
Travel Badge Drive with the goal of turning 511NY Rideshare member
actions into donations to local community organizations. </p>
<p>We encouraged our members to participate by earning Community
Mobilization badges on their profiles for taking actions like
completing their profile, becoming a Clean Air NY Advocate, or
planning a transit trip. </p>
<p>For each badge our members earned, 511NY Rideshare partner
organizations donated to local community groups. Our members earned
<strong>220 badges</strong> across the two-week drive, which allowed
us to facilitate donations of: </p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>2,000 bags of Matzo chips from <a
href="https://www.matzoproject.com/">The Matzo Project</a> to <a
href="https://www.metcouncil.org/our-mission">The Met Council </a></p></li>
<li>
<p>500 Glo Peanut Butter & Sea Salt energy bars from <a
href="https://rawrev.com/">Raw Rev</a> to <a
href="https://www.tcahnyc.org/">The Campaign Against Hunger
</a>and <a href="https://theconnectedchef.com/">The Connected
Chef</a> (1,000 total) </p></li>
<li>
<p>50 bottles of <a
href="https://scullyswonderfulstuff.com/">Scully’s </a>Wonderful
Stuff Deodermint from Scully’s to <a
href="https://www.lenoxhill.org/wmhsparkavearmory">Lenox Hill
Neighborhood House </a></p></li>
<li>
<p>225 pairs of children’s socks from <a
href="https://crestbrands.com/">Crest Brands</a> to <a
href="https://www.childrensaidnyc.org/">Children's Aid NYC</a></p></li>
<li>
<p>150 face masks from <a href="https://amjdigital.com/">AM&J
Digital</a> to <a href="https://www.islandharvest.org/">Island
Harvest Food Bank </a>and <a
href="https://wearebcs.org/">Brooklyn Community Services</a>
(300 total) </p></li></ul>
<p>
<em>
<img alt="box of socks donated to Children's Aid NYC"
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/children%27s+aid+box.png+%281%29.jpg/e3af26f8-63df-bcd3-fd1b-737380f1c366"
style="height: auto;width: 198.0px;float: left;" />“Thank you for
the socks donation. The children will love them!” </em>
<br /> – Children’s Aid NYC</p>
<p>
<em>"[Thank you for the Matzo Project donation,] offering
high-quality and tasty donated products to our emergency food
network, helping thousands of individuals and families across New
York City." </em>
<br /> - The Met Council</p>
<p>
<em>"Thank you so much [for the Raw Rev energy
bars,] our recipients really enjoyed them."</em>
<br /> - The Connected Chef</p>
<p>Thank you again for your participation in the Smart Travel Badge
Drive - the entire 511NY Rideshare team looks forward to hosting more
similar initiatives! </p>Cara Politi2020-12-14T09:53:00ZCelebrating Clean Air NY ChampionsCara Politihttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=99739332020-10-23T12:12:44Z2020-10-08T15:11:00Z<p>Representatives from Clean Air NY and 511NY Rideshare were proud to
present the <a href="https://www.newrochelleny.com/">City of New
Rochelle</a> and <a href="https://www.ridecircuit.com/">Circuit
</a>with Clean Air NY Champion awards on Friday, October 2 outside the
New Rochelle City Hall. </p>
<p>Circuit and the City of New Rochelle continue to lead the way on
sustainable transportation and air quality efforts. Since they
implemented CircuitNR, a complimentary on-demand electric shuttle
system, more than 15 metric tons of CO2 emissions have been mitigated.</p>
<p>
<b>"We are delighted that this innovative service has been
embraced by so many residents and visitors in our community, and we
appreciate [Clean Air NY's] recognition of Circuit NR as a positive model."</b>
<br />
<b>–</b>
<b> New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson</b></p>
<p>CircuitNR shuttles have saved over 38,000 vehicle miles in their
first year of operation, increasing mobility and accessibility in
downtown New Rochelle and providing a compelling alternative to
driving alone. Prior to the pandemic, CircuitNRwas moving more than
4,000 riders per month. During the height of the pandemic, it offered
free transportation to healthcare professionals going to Montefiore
New Rochelle Hospital to assist with the COVID-19 response.</p>
<p>Alex Esposito, Founder of Circuit made sure to especially acknowledge
Circuit's "amazing team of drivers, manager James Reffi, the
support of the City, and the strength of the community for making this
possible. It’s been wonderful to see the community take to the service
the way it has and the positive impact it’s having on the environment."</p>
<p>For more information on CircuitNR and the City of New Rochelle, visit
<a href="http://www.ideallynewrochelle.com/">www.ideallynewrochelle.com</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>
<i>Clean Air NY and 511NY Rideshare are sponsored by the New York
State Department of Transportation. Clean Air NY informs the public
when air quality is predicted to be in the unhealthy range for
sensitive groups and works with sister program, 511NY Rideshare, to
connect people with resources to help them understand the impact of
their commute choices and provide them with resources to plan for a
carpool, public transit, bike, or walking trip.</i></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Cara Politi2020-10-08T15:11:00ZCar Free Day 2020Cara Politihttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=97784122020-11-09T13:18:56Z2020-09-29T14:51:00Z<p>Car Free Day is one of the 511NY Rideshare team’s favorite annual
events. It looked a little different this year—our community kept each
other safe with masks and social distancing—but 1,678 sustainably
minded individuals across New York State still took the Car Free Day
pledge and then participated on September 25 by working from home,
taking transit, carpooling, biking, walking, or driving less. </p>
<p>The 511NY Rideshare team partnered with Transit Solutions to promote
Car Free Day on Long Island. </p>
<p>While we were not able to attend in-person events like in previous
years, we were still able to connect with our partners through
webinars and special promotions. We hosted a Climate Roundtable
webinar with speakers from Sustainable Westchester, Sustainable Hudson
Valley, and Bedford 2030 and hosted a Higher Education Sustainable
Transportation Webinar series with speakers and participants from
mobility providers, colleges, and universities across the state.</p>
<p>This year, our team hosted the first-ever Car Free Day Virtual Miles
Challenge with Mount Saint Mary College and SUNY Orange. Student clubs
from the two colleges demonstrated their climate leadership through
this friendly competition to see which group could track the most
active (walking, biking, hiking) miles.</p>
<p>Our friends at Bird Scooters provided participants a 50% off code to
use on Car Free Day in the City of Yonkers, Circuit (the Free Ride)
provided three swag bags, and 5 WITS provided a family ticket package
at their West Nyack locations.<br />
<img alt="Photo of 511NY Rideshare member, Ella in front of her car."
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/carfreeday.jpg/43143399-17ea-4bd5-bb18-457b4930ca20" style="height: auto;width: 271.0px;" />
<br /> Ella at Bard College went car-lite all week to celebrate. She
carefully planned her errands, so she only had to drive into town
once: “Making sure I don’t have to make the same trip twice saves a
lot of miles!” </p>
<p>Jordan at SUNY at Buffalo celebrated Car Free Day by working from
home: "Friday happens to be one of my work-from-home days, so
this year’s Car Free Day [was] pretty easy for me. If I DID have to go
to campus, I’d likely ride my bike to South Campus and take the
Stampede [bus] to North Campus and where I work.” </p>
<p>Thanks for participating in Car Free Day 2020—we cannot wait for
2021! </p>Cara Politi2020-09-29T14:51:00ZHeroes Moving HeroesCara Politihttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=62926382021-01-14T08:49:17Z2020-04-29T10:47:00Z<p>When our 511NY Rideshare team member, Modou, heard that travel nurses
were struggling to get from their hotels to work at Montefiore New
Rochelle Hospital, he sprang into action. He immediately reached out
to our local partners at Circuit, a free on-demand electric shuttle
service operating in New Rochelle, to find a way to get these heath
care heroes to work safely and reliably.</p>
<p>Circuit was originally launched by the City of New Rochelle’s
Industrial Development Agency in 2019 to increase mobility and
connectivity in its downtown and they were uniquely positioned to
help. Modou facilitated discussions between Montefiore New Rochelle
Hospital, Circuit, and the City of New Rochelle to organize daily
rides for the nurses who selflessly came to New York to help during
the COVID-19 crisis.</p>
<div>
<hr /></div>
<h3>
<strong>“During these unprecedented times we are grateful for our
service providers who rise to the challenge. This expanded
partnership with Circuit, 511NY Rideshare and Montefiore New
Rochelle will benefit both the medical staff and [the New Rochelle] community.”</strong></h3>
<p>- Charles B. Strome, New Rochelle Industrial Development Agency</p>
<div>
<hr /></div>
<p>Circuit shuttles began offering free rides to the nurses on Friday,
April 24, operating with no more than two nurses at a time in order to
maintain social distancing. Additionally, the hospital provided
disinfectant and personal protective equipment (PPE) to help protect
the drivers and nurses. The shuttles run from around 6:30am to 7:30pm,
providing rides for nurses working both day and night shifts. Alex
Esposito, cofounder of Circuit said, <strong>“it's undoubtedly a very
difficult time but it's encouraging to see how numerous groups have
come together so quickly to help those in need. We hope the program
provides a small benefit to the brave workers.”</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
<img alt=""
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/mask+makers.jpg/c0dc8cd6-6815-2df6-ed95-35d66d893b07"
style="width: 379.96px;height: auto;" width="265" /></p>
<p style="text-align: right;"> </p>
<p>As the story of this new collaboration began to spread, another 511NY
Rideshare team member, Samantha, saw an opportunity to provide some
additional support to the effort. She reached out to Dianne and Jenny,
a mother-daughter team of mask makers on Long Island, who were willing
to donate homemade masks for the Circuit drivers as a way to say
thanks.<strong> “Being able to make masks for Circuit Transportation
Drivers through 511NY Rideshare reaching out to us is the very least
we can do. It was a pleasure to be able to help,”</strong> they agreed.</p>
<p>The 511NY Rideshare team is dedicated to improving mobility in
communities across the state, even more during these stressful times.
We are proud of our staff who go above and beyond every day to help us
meet this mission and we are thrilled that this effort is enabling our
healthcare workers to continue to do the important work of saving lives.</p>
<p>To the travel nurses who voluntarily came to New York to help us in
our time of need, to the Circuit drivers and mask makers who are
helping them stay safe, our entire 511NY Rideshare team says: “Thank You!”</p>
<p>It has been a true honor to experience your humanity and selflessness.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>
<i>511NY Rideshare is sponsored by the New York State Department of
Transportation to provide transportation resources to individuals
and employers throughout New York State. For inquiries, contact
info@511NYRideshare or 718-886-1343. </i></p>Cara Politi2020-04-29T10:47:00Z511NY Rideshare Team Tours Brooklyn Navy YardCara Politihttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=57061842020-03-05T15:09:54Z2020-03-03T15:29:00Z<p>Last week, members of the 511NY Rideshare team had the opportunity to
participate in a demonstration of the self-driving shuttles at the
Brooklyn Navy Yard. The Navy Yard is currently home to six
self-driving Optimus Ride vehicles, open to both the public and
employees. It has stops at Wegmans and the NYC Ferry among others and
operates daily from 7:00am to 10:30pm. Ferry riders can ride the
Optimus Ride for free!</p>
<p>The vehicles can be used both on public and private roads with
permission and they aim to have ADA compliant vehicles by 2021. </p>
<p>Brooklyn joins Boston MA, Paradise Valley CA and Reston VA in
implementing these Optimus Ride vehicles - we're excited to see where
else these cool rides pop up! </p>
<p>Our partner, Nick Palumbo at Suffolk County Community
College <em>“really appreciated the opportunity to see and learn
about Optimus Ride’s Brooklyn Navy Yard pilot project."</em></p>
<p>Nick continued: <em>"It is a very exciting to see this type of
sustainable transportation technology being deployed in a real world
setting. Based on the rides we took, the reaction of other riders to
the service, and the metrics that were shared with us, it is clear
that this model has real promise for transforming urban and suburban
mobility. I look forward to seeing further rollouts in our area, and
am very hopeful that we can explore bringing these types of services
to our campuses at Suffolk County Community College.”</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p>
<img src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/optimus+ride.jpg/fdb144d1-bb57-bd01-4e8b-24e43244bf12" /></p>
<p> </p>Cara Politi2020-03-03T15:29:00ZReward Carpoolers Through 511NY Rideshare's Preferred Parking ProgramCoralie Norrishttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=54609642020-08-18T15:50:35Z2020-01-14T13:38:00Z<hr />
<p>Julien and Naomi have been carpooling since 2018, sharing the ride to
their jobs at Northwell Health’s North Shore University Hospital on
Long Island.When Julien commuted alone, he would often spend 15-20
minutes looking for a parking spot at work. Now that he shares the
ride with Naomi, he gets that 15-20 minutes back by parking in a
reserved parking space for carpoolers!</p>
<p>“It’s a great way to park with ease, save money and have a nice
commute with <u>great </u>conversation,” says Naomi.</p>
<p>Do your employees spend valuable time looking for parking every
morning? Join companies like Northwell Health —the largest employer in
the state—and implement a Preferred Parking Program today!Contact
info@511NYRideshare.org for more information!</p>Coralie Norris2020-01-14T13:38:00Z"But What If My Kid Gets Sick?"Coralie Norrishttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=54609402020-02-17T14:44:37Z2020-01-14T13:27:00Z<hr />
<p>The top concerns we hear from commuters include: “What happens if my
kid gets sick suddenly and I have to go pick them up?” “Sometimes I
have to work late, so I cannot count on someone to wait for me.”</p>
<p>We hear you. And you deserve a flexible option for those emergencies
or unexpected situations that arise at home, at school, or elsewhere,
and there’s no vehicle available at that moment to leave work.That’s
where we come in.</p>
<p>The 511NY Rideshare Guaranteed Ride Program (GRP), sponsored by the
New York State Department of Transportation, is like an insurance
policy for commuters. If you work in New York State and commute
sustainably (by carpooling, vanpooling, walking, biking, or taking
public transportation) several times per week, you qualify for GRP. If
you miss your ride from work due to an emergency, 511NY Rideshare
covers the cost to your destination by public transit, taxi, Uber, or
Lyft—up to $300 per year.</p>
<p>Take it from 511NY Rideshare member and IBM employee, Kristina:“There
have been times where I’ve had to leave work at 10:30 p.m., when the
trains don’t run that often. I’d have to wait at the station for a
full hour alone late at night, so I’ve taken the GRP ride straight to
my apartment and, for me, it has been a safety thing. GRP has really
saved me." <em> </em></p>
<p>To learn more about 511NY Rideshare's Guaranteed Ride Program, email
us or call 511 and say "Rideshare." Out-of-state callers can
call 888-GO511NY (888-465-1169), select a region (Hudson
Valley/Catskills, Long Island, New York City Metro) and then say "Rideshare."</p>Coralie Norris2020-01-14T13:27:00ZWhy Partner With 511NY RideshareCoralie Norrishttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=54609182020-08-24T11:53:21Z2020-01-14T13:21:00Z<p>
<img
src="https://511nyrideshare.org/documents/portlet_file_entry/3057049/0+%283%29.jpg/2c5e0271-327a-202c-3b4e-787e08ac3830" style="height: auto;width: 323.0px;" /></p>
<p>Eight years ago, Kathy started partnering with 511NY Rideshare to
create a better environment for SUNY Farmingdale students. She worked
with 511NY Rideshare to launch a commuter portal, making it easy for
their students to explore sustainable commute modes, including getting
matched with other students to form carpools.</p>
<p>Kathy advises all Universities to partner with 511NY Rideshare:</p>
<p>
<em>“It’s a no-lose situation. We invite 511NY Rideshare to come to
our orientations and to other on-campus events so our students can
learn about the program. We encourage all of our students to join
511NY Rideshare because we want them to focus on learning, rather
than worrying about how they’re going to get to campus.”</em></p>
<p>Interested in partnering up with 511NY Rideshare?
Contact info@511NYRideshare.org for more information! </p>Coralie Norris2020-01-14T13:21:00ZNorthwell Launches Preferred ParkingCoralie Norrishttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=54606442020-08-24T11:52:39Z2020-01-14T12:45:00Z<hr />
<p>To encourage employees to make positive changes to their commutes,
Northwell has partnered with 511NY Rideshare to offer preferred
parking spaces to employees that carpool.</p>
<p>Since June, Northwell has installed 22 preferred parking signs at its
New Hyde Park (Long Island) locations, with plans to expand to more
locations throughout the system. Through its partnership with 511NY
Rideshare, Northwell employees have saved 600,000 single occupancy
vehicle miles this year — <em>
<strong>enough to get from Long Island to California 212
times</strong></em>.
</p>
<p>This reduction in driving miles saved carbon emissions equivalent to
flying from the east to west coast 108 times!Northwell is determined
to continue to expand the commuter resources it offers employees
through its partnership with 511NY Rideshare.Interested in offering
more transportation resources to your employees—or installing
preferred parking signs? We’re here to help!
</p>
<p>Contact us at info@511NYRideshare.org.</p>Coralie Norris2020-01-14T12:45:00ZYour Commute Doesn’t Need to Be a StressorKevin Fiolhttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=54288212020-01-07T13:00:39Z2020-01-07T13:00:00Z<p>"The best is the morning commute.
I arrive at work wide awake and feeling turbocharged." -
<em>511NY Rideshare member, Paul F. </em></p>
<p>Do your employees share this sentiment about their own commutes? We
know not everyone feels like Paul F. does about his bike commute.</p>
<p>Researchers at the University of West England found that every extra
minute of commute time increases strain and worsens employees' mental health.</p>
<p>They found that "an additional 20 minutes of commuting per day
has the same negative effect on job satisfaction as receiving a 19%
pay cut" (<a href="https://www.inc.com/business-insider/study-reveals-commute-time-impacts-job-satisfaction.html">Inc.com</a>).</p>
<p>Employees with improved commutes have more time for family
activities--eating dinner together, spending more time with their kids
and friends, and pursuing their hobbies.</p>
<p>
<img src="https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/C4E12AQFmGwxSp1dvmg/article-inline_image-shrink_1000_1488/0?e=1583971200&v=beta&t=hKZxvBtB8NXnq6Ue9uQVfYG3YTvlxeX8Ouz7z1OpCGI" /></p>
<p>Flexible scheduling and easy commutes are often top priorities in a
job search, making some potential employees more willing to take a job
with less pay in favor of a better commute.</p>
<p>Tom C., a 511NY Rideshare member, is reaping the benefits of a
stress-free sustainable commute. He sold his car and says,
<em>"Ending my day with the subway and a walk instead of
sitting in traffic has really improved my mood."</em></p>
<p>Interested in implementing flexible scheduling or a commuter program
at your worksite? We're happy to help. Contact us at <a href="http://info@511NYRideshare.org">info@511NYRideshare.org</a>.</p>Kevin Fiol2020-01-07T13:00:00Z511NY Rideshare and SUNY Suffolk Community CollegeKevin Fiolhttps://511nyrideshare.org/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=5428710&entryId=54287802020-01-10T10:27:54Z2020-01-07T12:59:00Z<p>Melanie Morris, the Assistant Director of Sustainability at Suffolk
Community College has been working with 511NY Rideshare for the last
five years. Through her partnership with 511NY Rideshare, she has been
able to establish a comprehensive resource for students and faculty to
improve their commutes. Melanie encourages other universities to do
the same:</p>
<p>
<img alt="No alt text provided for this image"
src="https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/C4D12AQHdCgIAa9J9dQ/article-inline_image-shrink_1000_1488/0?e=1583971200&v=beta&t=tNMBdcQ_ZOGfaqyIaGF6zvZhVdtsepgTBqhi1_IZYnI" style="height: auto;width: 110.0px;" /></p>
<p>"511NY Rideshare has become a household name at Suffolk County
Community College. Our students and staff are familiar with the team
and seek them out for answers to all questions related to
transportation. [The 511NY Rideshare Team] regularly attend campus
events and provide a continuous education and reminder on how to
reduce our environmental impacts.</p>
<p>SCCC is primarily a commuter campus, where single passenger vehicles
are the predominant mode of transportation, making it difficult for
students who do not own or operate a car to get to and from campus.
511NY Rideshare provides students a platform to come together and
share rides to campus – helping us to ease traffic, crowded parking
lots and lower our GHG emissions.</p>
<p>
<img alt="No alt text provided for this image"
src="https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/C4D12AQHtaE_0PLkVhQ/article-inline_image-shrink_400_744/0?e=1583971200&v=beta&t=NpWiZAJbP8glUx2t-OXafNzLdypaha7O37B8FuAKuFs" style="height: auto;width: 122.0px;" /></p>
<p>There is no risk for an employer to partner with 511NY Rideshare - in
our five years of working with them, Suffolk has had nothing but
positive experiences. Students & Staff sign up for the program at
their own leisure and can customize it to fit into their everyday
schedules. They offer an affordable and environmentally friendly
transportation option to students, faculty and staff."</p>
<p>To partner with 511NY Rideshare like SUNY Suffolk Community College
and countless other respected organizations, contact us at <a href="http://info@511nyrideshare.org/">info@511NYRideshare.org</a>.</p>Kevin Fiol2020-01-07T12:59:00Z