The Vanpool and miniPOOL Program has been initiated for those who utilize I-10, 610 or US 59 South. While normal vanpool programs require 8-15 passengers, this program only required 5-8 riders, including the driver. Riders get one month free to try the program, and $50/month thereafter toward the cost as an incentive to continue using the program.

NuRide allows commuters to plan trips online and get rewarded for riding together. Like booking an airline ticket, users sign up online -- where they want to go, when they want to go, whether they want to ride or drive, and other criteria.

NuRide can be used once or daily, one-way or round-trip. NuRide is set up through employers, which allows the program to verify each rider’s identity so users can feel safe and secure with everyone in the system. There is even a rating system to find out how other NuRiders have rated others. ExxonMobil, El Paso Corporation, Reliant Energy and Harris County have already signed up for this service.

Did you know that you can get transit tax benefits!? Federal tax laws allow up to $105/month to be set aside by the employer or the employee pre-tax for bus or van transit passes, thus avoiding income and payroll taxes on the amount that is set aside. A company's "parking cash-out" program can allow employees to give up their parking space and receive an equivalent amount of taxable salary or receive the same amount in pre-tax transportation benefits.

For more information, see our new flier or contact Marina at 713-650-1470 or marina@centralhouston.org

Calculate your monthly commute costs by clicking here!