Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR), University of South Florida (USF)

	One of the Best Workplaces for Commuters Since: October 2002 Primary Commuter Benefits: Fully subsidized transit passes Emergency Ride Home Supporting Commuter Benefits: Rideshare and carpool matching On-site amenities Secure bicycle parking, showers, and lockers Flexible work arrangements (compressed work schedules and telework) Shuttles from transit stations Membership in a TMA Lunchtime shuttle

With more than 80 onsite employees conducting transportation research, it seemed only logical for CUTR, an urban transportation research center at the University of South Florida (USF), to implement a comprehensive commuter benefits program to provide employees with commuting options other than driving alone to work.

Program at a Glance

In 1999, CUTR implemented formal telework and compressed workweek programs. The telework program allows approved employees to work from home one day per week. The compressed workweek program allows employees to work 80 hours in nine days instead of 10. Compressed schedules allow for more free time at home and necessitate fewer trips to work. In fact, in 2004, CUTR employees reduced commute trips by 6.5 percent during an average week simply due to these two benefits.

In 2000, the USF campus bus system initiated service to off-campus locales, and by 2002 USF had negotiated with Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HARTline) to offer the UPASS program. The UPASS allows all faculty, staff, and students to ride USF and HARTline buses for free by simply showing a valid USF ID card.

USF's Bullrunner buses service the campus and surrounding communities.

Thanks to Florida’s amenable climate, bicycle commuting is also a viable option for CUTR employees. To support this environmentally friendly commute mode, CUTR provides secure bike racks and lids conveniently located just outside the buildings, and shower facilities inside. Currently, three employees bike to work each day.

"CUTR’s commitment to leading by example by offering compressed and flexible work schedules and telecommuting and by actively promoting modal alternatives has been a positive part of our organizational culture for many years," said Patricia Ball, CUTR's Administrative Services Director. "Our research has shown that these policies are good for the environment and general mobility, and our personal experience has been that the Best Workplaces for Commuters^SM designation greatly benefits our organization through increased employee morale, productivity, and retention."

CUTR has also been involved with the area’s transportation management organization, the New North Transportation Alliance (NNTA) since it was created in 1994. Because the organization is housed at CUTR, information on bicycle commuting, ridesharing, and bus transportation is readily available to all employees. Program coordinators also promote commuting options to employees and new recruits at job interviews, orientation, and the annual benefits fair, as well as through regular emails.

	CUTR provides secure bike lids and showers for employees who enjoy biking to work.

Program Recognition

In addition to recognition from EPA and DOT, CUTR received recognition at the local level at the 2002 and 2003 Clean Air Partnership awards luncheon, which recognized area employers with commuter benefits programs that reduce single occupant vehicle travel and improve air quality in the Tampa Bay Area. In addition, CUTR features the Best Workplaces for Commuters^SM Logo on their Web site and hypes their designation in job ads.

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