Downtown Boulder
Best Workplaces for Commuters^SM District

"In Boulder, we like to try healthy and creative approaches to get commuters out of their cars. That way, people are improving the quality of their lives as well as the environment."

— Jan Ward, Employee Transportation Coordinator

Downtown Boulder is using creativity to bring commuter benefits to a whole new level. In an effort to promote "green transportation" to as many people as possible, the city offers the Eco Pass, an unlimited regional transit pass for bus and light rail, free of charge to the employees of all downtown businesses. In addition, the city provides a wide range of commuter benefits including bike parking throughout the downtown area, electric bikes, and a full-service Transportation Resource Center—making downtown Boulder a model for cities around the country.

As a result of the city's leadership, EPA recognized downtown Boulder as the nation's first-ever Best Workplaces for Commuters^SM District in 2002. Each of the more than 1,000 employers throughout the district meet Best Workplaces for Commuters qualifications because of the benefits the city provides.

More than 800 people participated in the 6th Annual Pearl Street Mile race through downtown Boulder.

Using city resources and a little imagination, downtown Boulder offers an array of services to help employees get to work. The Transportation Resource Center, in the heart of downtown Boulder, provides a one-stop spot for commuter needs. Local employees can pick up their Eco Pass five days a week, and visitors can also find transit maps and schedules, electric bikes to test drive, and information on exciting commuter events.

The annual "Car-Free Day" encourages people to bike, walk, or take alternate modes of transportation to work. More than 1,000 people took part in the event last year. Some formed teams that took the "commuter team challenge" and biked across town, and then either walked, ran, or took the bus to the finish line in front of the Center—proving that alternate modes of transportation can be just as easy—and just as fast—as driving by car.

For more information about the district, visit http://www.gettingthere.com/