Oregon commuters and employers now have a new way to save money, improve commute options, and reduce the costs of getting to work.
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) recently launched Get There by Vanpool, a new statewide program that combines professional vanpool management services with a new subsidy to make vanpooling more affordable across Oregon. The program will be administered by Commute with Enterprise and supported by Get There Oregon through statewide outreach, resources, and employer support.
Whether you’re an employer looking to offer a valuable commute benefit or a commuter searching for a less expensive way to get to work, Get There by Vanpool is designed to make getting started easier than ever.
What Is a Vanpool?
A vanpool is a shared commute for groups of people traveling to work. Unlike carpools, vanpools use professionally managed vehicles rather than a participant’s personal vehicle. Most vanpools include five to 14 riders who share the ride and the cost. Vanpools can be especially effective for commuters traveling 20 miles or more each way.
What’s Included?
Get There by Vanpool offers more than just a subsidy. The program includes:
- Rider matching
- Vehicle rental
- Insurance
- Vehicle maintenance
- Fuel management
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Emergency Ride Home benefits
- Billing management
- Ongoing vanpool support and administration
Commute with Enterprise handles the day-to-day logistics, making it easy for both employers and commuters to participate.
The New Statewide Vanpool Subsidy
The program includes a statewide subsidy that can cover up to 50% of eligible vanpool costs:
- Up to $550 per month for vanpools with up to 8 seats
- Up to $750 per month for vanpools with 9-14 seats
After the subsidy is applied, the remaining cost can be paid by riders, employers, or a combination of both.
For example, if an eight-person vanpool costs $1,200 per month, the program could cover $550. The remaining $650 could be split among riders or covered in part by the employer, bringing the average monthly cost to less than $85 per passenger.
Ready to Learn More?
Find employer resources, commuter information, success stories, and FAQs here: Get There by Vanpool