With the number of registered vehicles on Oahu alone doubling in the past 20 years, traffic is only getting worst for the Hawaiian Islands. Therefore, Hawaii’s Department of Transportation offers Hawaii public residents and visitor’s alternative options from owning or driving a registered vehicle when possible. By engaging in alternative transportation behaviors and practices, Hawaii will begin to see less congestion, more money saved on transportation per year, and

CARPOOL

Carpooling is one of the most popular forms of ridesharing. Instead of driving alone, people can ride with others who commute to and from the same area. Carpoolers usually share in gas and parking expenses. Carpooling is flexible. You can carpool as frequently as you like, round trip or even one way, and arrange to drive when you need your car. For more information, complete and mail the Carpool Matching Form, or call (808) 692-7695 or (808) 677-RIDE.

THE BUS

TheBus provides regularly-scheduled fixed-route service along 93 routes that serve all areas of Oahu. There are approximately 4,200 bus stops on the island. With a fleet of 525 buses, the City and County of Honolulu's award-winning system provides bus service within reasonable walking distance of 94% of Oahu residents. Riders may pay one-way fares or purchase monthly bus passes. Persons over 65 and students through high school age can ride at a discounted rate. For fare and schedule information, contact TheBus at (808) 848-5555.

EMPLOYER PROGRAMS

Transportation policies can have a big impact on employees' commuting habits. Some employers offer variable work hour programs or ridesharing incentives such as preferential or free parking privileges for carpoolers/vanpoolers, transportation allowances, or free or subsidized passes for TheBus. Some organizations have a Guaranteed Ride Home program that provides ridesharing employees a company car or vouchers for taxi service in case of an emergency. Call your Human Resources Department or the TDM Office at (808) 692-7695 for more information.

TELECOMMUTING

Go to work without going to the office! Computer and communications technology makes it possible for people to work at home or at satellite work centers. This reduces the number of people contributing to traffic congestion. For more information about telecommuting, call the TDM Office at (808) 692-7695.

WALKING/JOGGING

For those who live close to work, walking or jogging is the ideal way to fight traffic and start the day off feeling refreshed and energized. Remember, dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes.

BICYCLING

Hawaii's year-round climate makes it a perfect place for bicycling. If you live within five miles of your workplace, your commute time will be the same as if you drive, and parking is never a problem. Bicycling helps cut down on traffic congestion, is inexpensive, and is a healthy way to get to and from work. Oahu commuters also have the option of taking their bicycles along when they travel certain routes on TheBus which are equipped with bicycle racks, If you bicycle, be sure to obey all traffic laws, always wear a helmet, arrange for secure parking, and be familiar with routine bicycle repairs. For more information, call the State Bicycle/Pedestrian Coordinator at (808) 587-1983 or the Honolulu Bicycle Coordinator at (808) 527-5044.