Commuter shuttles aren’t just a tech trend; companies across all regions and industries are seeing real benefits for employers and employees alike

30 Jul Commuter shuttles aren’t just a tech trend; companies across all regions and industries are seeing real benefits for employers and employees alike

There is a long list of reasons why companies in Maine area and other parts of the world are deciding to employ employee shuttle programs. Here are a few that will help Maine Shuttle Experts see why more and more companies are investing in this particular employee benefit and seeing the returns that it brings.

1. Improved employee performance & general well-being

Downtime on the shuttle gives employees time to get ready for the day ahead, whether that involves choosing to rest and relax, check email, or catch up on the news. They arrive at the office ready to transition more quickly to work mode. Over the long term, the shuttle can reduce stress-related health problems associated with driving in traffic that lead to missed work and health claims– check out this TIME Magazine article on 10 Things Your Commute Does To Your Body.

2. Lessens the challenge of government compliance

Many state and regional governments require employers to offer Commute Trip Reduction (CTR) programs to reduce SOV commuting and achieve better air quality, such as AQMD’s Rule 2202. In urban areas, companies may find SOV reduction a condition of zoning approval.

3. Company reward for recruiting and retention

A company shuttle is a great differentiating factor when it comes to reducing or enticing new hires turnover. In addition to the health and wellness benefits, employees save money on gas and vehicle costs, which is money in their pockets. Recognition is available through designations such as Best Workplaces for Commuters.

4. Qualify for IRS non-taxable Fringe Benefits

Section 132(f) of the Federal tax code allows tax-free transportation fringe benefits of up to $130 per month per employee for transit or vanpool expenses. Employees receive more from tax-free transportation fringe benefits than from a comparable salary increase since they do not pay federal income or payroll taxes on the value of the fringe benefit. Learn more from the National Center for Transit Research.

5. Go green

Encouraging your employees not to drive themselves to work not only helps with SOV compliance but dramatically reduces your carbon footprint. The San Francisco County Transportation Authority estimates the existing shuttles in that area to replace roughly 757,000 single-passenger car trips and save a net 28.7 million VMT (vehicle miles traveled).

6. Cost savings

Offering your employees a commuter shuttle may be a more economical option to expending mileage or building infrastructure like a new parking deck. Several states also provide employers with tax credits for offering commuter benefit programs.

7. Better workplace contentment and corporate identity

Be known as a great place to work, one that cares about their employees and supports the work-life balance. Employees also become familiar with one another better, including coworkers outside their normal work sphere, helping them feel more connected and fostering a sense of teamwork. There are a lot of benefits to loyal employees!