Perks in store for employees

using alternate transport

Clean Commute Week is slated for May 12 to 16, during which the Emory community perhaps can breath air that's a little purer and ride in traffic that's moving a bit quicker because of the use of vans, carpools, public transportation, bikes or legs.

If that's not enough incentive, the Parking Office, the Well House and other sponsors are dangling a few carrots of their own in an attempt to stress the benefits of cleaner commuting. "We want to increase the community's awareness of fitting commuting options to their lifestyle," said Cheryle Crumley, manager of alternative transportation and the event's organizer. Clean Commute Week also fits nicely the Well House's emphasis on employee health. "To be healthy, we also have to look to our environment," said Yvonne Hodge, manager of occupational health promotion at the Well House. "Clean Commute Week is one way of making people aware of the health effects of pollution."

On Monday, May 12, the Parking Office will give away free one-time, round trip MARTA passes to the first 25 employees who come into the office at 1701 Lowergate Drive and request them.

Tuesday is "bike there" day. Employees showing their bike helmets to P.E. Center staff will receive free use of shower and locker room facilities for the day. They will also be registered for a raffle being held at Staff Fest on May 15, for a prize still to be determined.

Rider Appreciation Day will be held Wednesday in honor of everyone who regularly uses the University shuttle system. Argenbright, the company that operates the service, will serve up healthy snacks to morning and afternoon commuters. The GLOW Mobile also will be on hand on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in front of the Administration Building. "Employees can renew their driver's licenses and pick up other information related to seat belt safety," said Hodge. So, if employees do have to use their cars during Clean Commute Week, Hodge gently admonished, they'll remember to wear their seatbelts.

Formal activities wrap up on National Clean Commute Day, Thursday, when carpoolers will receive coupons for free Freshen's smoothies and pizza from Campus Food. The Parking Office will have a booth at Staff Fest activities later in the day as will MARTA and there will be a raffle of Clean Commute Day t-shirts.

If a week of bikes, walking and public transport leaves employees hankering for the inside of a passenger car, don't despair, said Crumley. While the exact route is still undetermined, "we'll have the electric tram out for employees to ride in," she said. For more information call 727-7638.

-Stacey Jones