Vanpool

Shortly before the pandemic, the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority rolled out a Vanpool program aimed at increasing options for people looking to get to work, and for the employers who depend on them.

Vanpool is an employer sponsored program that allows up to 15 employees to use vans on their daily commutes to and from work. Partnered with Commute with Enterprise, the Vanpool program rents out passenger vans. Half the service is paid for by TARTA and the remaining half can either be paid for by the employer or by the employees.

The many benefits to this service are laid out by the Brandon Waites the mobility manager at TARTA.

Once at least four people are signed up for Vanpool at a certain employer, Enterprise will assign a recent model SUV or van and a pick-up location.

Waites highlights that employer can pay for half of this service. The remainder of the cost can be pooled together and split evenly among passenger using the service. Fuel and insurance are also covered in that cost.

While pricing is variable, the program pre-pandemic lessened the burden of many area residents from a $15-20 rideshare to $20 per month.

If a Vanpool participant needs to leave or be picked up early or there are issues with the van, Enterprise will send a car out as a replacement vehicle free of charge.

TARTA has ramped up efforts to expand the number of vans and people using the service. Employers or employees who feel their business could benefit from the service are encouraged to contact Brandon Waites at 567-666-5250, or bwaites@tarta.com to find out more.

Vanpool is available to those who live or work within TARTA service areas. Transportation is available for those living in TARTA’s service area who work up to 45 miles away.