Cities and towns are spread out over many miles and most Americans have to commute to get to work. The government is promoting special programs that will provide incentives for commuters and employers to “Get There With Clean Air.” The US Department of Transportation and the US Environmental Protection Agency are teaming up with businesses and employees to set up a programs called “Commuter Choice.”

These programs offer cash and other types of incentives for making an effort to promote commuting greener. More companies are starting to see the benefits of making use of the Commuter Choice Programs. The government programs offer workers tax free transit or vanpool benefits that can go up to $100 per month. Another option is employees can give up their parking space and receive up to an additional $175 per month.

The employees of the companies offering these programs can use the money to commute using a variety of methods. They can carpool, bicycle or walk. If you carpool with someone and take turns driving you will both save money and wear and tear on your vehicles.

Some companies have come up with some clever ideas to promote “Get There With Clean Air.” One company offers free walking shoes. If the employee walks to work the company will by them running shoes. Another company gives its employees an extra hour of comp time for every 5 days they carpool or vanpool to work. They also have permission to dress casually at work. Another type of program a company uses is to have monthly drawing for prizes to those who participate in the program. Some of the prizes include extra time off and other items.

The Commuter Choice Programs helps to cut down on air pollution and also helps to reduce traffic congestion. These programs are a great way to conserve energy and fuel.