Public transportation has many modes of service. For example, fixed route buses operate in urban areas. Another service mode is known as Vanpool.

Vanpools help commuters with similar travel patterns and similar work schedules save money by commuting together. Each passenger pays an affordable monthly fare based on the number of riders, miles and specific vehicle needs of the group. A designated driver and back-up driver are identified to ensure the commute always runs smoothly.

A guaranteed ride home can be arranged should any emergency arise. Flat tire? No problem. There’s a plan in place for all emergencies with 24-hour roadside assistance.

Have a mobility need such as wheelchair access? No problem! The vehicle assigned to each Vanpool is assigned based on the specific rider’s needs. 

What are some of the benefits of riding in a Vanpool? 

       • Time! Use your commute to help you stay connected to friends, family, check email, read, or even take a nap. The driver

          for your Vanpool will do the work while you can get some of your day back.

       • Money. Want to scale down to a one car household? Tired of paying high rates for auto insurance? Tired of feeling tied

          to the gas pump? Have a hard time fitting your vehicle maintenance into your budget or even your weekend schedule? A

          Vanpool might be the solution for you.

       • Sustainability. Thinking about your carbon footprint? Tired of the congestion? By riding in a Vanpool, you and the other

          riders help to decrease emissions and your carbon footprint, eliminate vehicles from the road and know you’re doing

          your part.

Vanpool members are expected to make a 90-day commitment to the Vanpool, which helps the rest of the group budget for their monthly expenses. 

How are the fares structured? HIRTA provides a subsidy to help reduce the overall cost of each Vanpool. Some employers provide additional subsidy. The remainder of the cost is split among the riders. 

For more information on Vanpools please contact Brooke Ramsey at bramsey@ridehirta.com or call 515-309-9282.