MACOG Partners with Enterprise to Expand Commuting Options for Local Workers
As businesses in the area continue to grow and commute costs continue to increase, the Michiana Area Council of Governments (MACOG) is creating improvements to the transit system to attract workers to the area while reducing expenses for commuters. In partnership with Commute with Enterprise, MACOG is helping to continue to provide an innovative and sustainable shared mobility option: vanpooling.
The Commute program is a coordinated vanpool program available for commuters starting or ending in Elkhart or St. Joseph Counties and wish to access jobs in the area. The program coordinates participants who indicate their interest through various channels such as at their jobsite or via an online portal. The program then matches riders who have similar work shifts in similar areas and are interested in riding together. Each vanpool is customized to the specific needs of the group. Once four or more people are matched, a Commute with Enterprise representative will work with the group to identify needs and provide solutions. Commute with Enterprise provides the 7-15 passenger vehicle, insurance, maintenance and ongoing support. MACOG chose to work with Commute with Enterprise to bring their expertise, scalability and professionalism to the region to ensure the program’s success.
“MACOG is partnering with Enterprise to help improve access to jobs across our region. This new partnership will give workers in our region an affordable and reliable way to commute, opening doors to job opportunities that were once out of reach," said James Turnwald, Executive Director of MACOG.
The vanpool program will be partially subsidized by MACOG using grant funds. The remaining cost is split among the employer and/or participants, with each vanpool rider paying a set fee per month. Enterprise will provide coordination services and technology, vehicles, liability insurance, scheduled vehicle maintenance, and 24-hour roadside assistance.
Participants can choose a qualifying vanpool vehicle from Enterprise’s selection of makes and models that includes crossovers, SUVs, minivans, and large passenger vans. Vanpoolers may choose to upgrade their vehicles with optional high-end features such as satellite radio and in-vehicle Wi-Fi service.
People who commute to or from Elkhart or St. Joseph Counties and are interested in joining the program can visit https://www.commutewithenterprise.com/commute/en/partners/macog.html
