SU recognized as leader in reducing SOV commuting

February 8, 2018

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For the third year in a row, Seattle University has been named a Commute Trip Reduction Champion by the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT). 

"Through the Commute Trip Reduction (CTR) program Seattle works with the city’s largest companies to reduce congestion by decreasing the numbers of drive-alone trips during peak hour commutes," writes SDOT. "The CTR Champions program recognizes employers who achieve notable reductions, provide innovative and comprehensive employee commuter programs and have high levels of participation." 

The city lauds this year’s Champions for “providing commuter benefits that get results by encouraging and supporting commute modes other than driving alone.” 

Seattle University provides various incentive programs and resources to reduce single occupancy vehicle (SOV) commutes, including subsidized Orca cards and options for ridesharing and bicycling. 

Nearly half of SU’s community bikes, walks or uses transit for commuting purposes, according to an infographic on the Center of Environmental Justice and Sustainability’s website. 

A 2016 commuter survey of SU students, faculty and staff showed a 10 percent decrease since 2007 of students driving alone to and from campus and a 23 percent decrease since 1995. Employees driving alone has seen a decrease of 10 percent since 2001.

Transportation Coordinator Whitney Wedge will represent Seattle U at a celebration next month to honor this year’s CTR Champions. Christine Gregoire, former governor of Washington and current CEO of Challenge Seattle, will be the keynote speaker.