CommuteSmart is hoping to teach local drivers something the A-Team figured out long ago, the value of a van.
CommuteSmart Program Manager Sean Saffle says if you've got a qualified driver and at least four people willing to ride together, they will loan you one free for two weeks.
They will even throw in $40.00 worth of gas.
"If you live in Blount County and drive to Jefferson or if you live in Jefferson and drive out to the Mercedes plant you can try it out. That's what our program covers, people that live or work in Jefferson and Shelby County," said Sean Saffle.
Some companies such as the VA in Birmingham, encourage their workers to ride together and share the cost of the program.
Some employees say they love it.
"I fill my car up once a month and with the gas prices down now I'm paying maybe thirty or forty dollars for gas once a month," said Kendra Brookshire.
"I love to read, so I get to really take 25-30 minutes to enjoy my favorite book," said Tracy Humbert.
And six people in one van means six fewer engines spewing exhaust in the morning and six extra parking spots downtown.
The program also has one very cool feature called curbside service.
"If it's not my week to drive then I can go all the way up to the VA to the door, get out, go in, don't have to worry about parking or anything," said Doris Lucas.
If you like the sound of that, a vanpool may be just right for you.
Contact CommuteSmart for details at the link provided.
