Welcome Smart Commuter
What is Vanpool?
A vanpool is a group of 5 to 15 people who share their work commute in a 7-, 12- or 15-passenger van. Our vanpools serve groups whose trip origin or destination is within Pierce County. Riders pay a low monthly fare and enjoy a cost-effective, safe, reliable commute.
Low Monthly Fares
Vanpool fares are based on the van’s daily round trip mileage and the number of riders in the van. Fares cover the costs of operating the vanpool, including fuel, insurance and maintenance.
Vanpooling Saves You Money
Vanpooling is an affordable solution to fight expensive commuting costs. According to AAA, it costs 61.88¢ per mile* to operate a personal vehicle. Multiply that by your yearly commute miles and the total cost can be staggering.
*Exchange.aaa.com based on 15,000 miles annually.
Enjoy the Benefits!
Many employers provide incentives for vanpooling ranging from a few dollars to a full fare subsidy, and offer preferential parking. Ask your employer about their Commute Trip Reduction program.
In addition to enjoying the possible benefit of an employer subsidy, you will also:
- Save money
- Reduce wear and tear on your car
- Reduce commuting stress
- Access HOV lanes
- Emergency Ride Home option
- Bike racks available, at no additional cost
- Reduces pollution and traffic congestion
The convenience and ease of sharing the ride makes vanpooling a great alternative to driving alone.
Check out our Current Vanpools or form a new vanpool today!
We are here to ReConnect You With LIfe
As part of our commitment to keep our customers safe and our vehicles clean and disinfected, we will continue to: Disinfect our fleet of spare vans and vans that come in for service, focusing on “high touch” areas.
Maintaining a Safe Environment
Disinfecting services are now available 24/7 at Pierce Transit headquarters. The five vehicle disinfecting sites that were available throughout Pierce County are no longer in service.
If you would like to have your van disinfected, please call our office at 253.581.8000 (option 3, then 2) between 8 AM and 5 PM to schedule a time to come in. Further instructions will be provided during scheduling.
Your Safety Is Our Highest Priority
As a reminder:- Do not vanpool if you feel sick
- Wear a cloth face covering as recommended by public health officials
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and/or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Cover your coughs and sneezes
- Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces
Jason H.
Commutes over 50 miles each way in his van.
How long have you been vanpooling? 3 years
How often do you ride? 5 days a week
What’s your favorite part about vanpooling?
The savings (gas), it helps keep the roads less crowded, allows you to get to know your coworkers and strengthen relationships, which in turn makes work better by giving it a personal touch.
Ronda M.
Type of Ride: Rocks an electric hybrid van
How long have you been vanpooling? 20+ years
How often do you ride? 5 days a week
What’s your favorite part about vanpooling?
It saves wear and tear on her car, is helping the environment and allows her to visit with other coworkers.
What you would say to people who are interested in trying vanpool for the first time?
“Give it a try it’s worth it. You get to build relationships and have extra time to think about work. It’s a way of making a difference.”
Testimonials:
"I'm loving the vanpool. Everyone is so nice. The drivers are great, timely and safe. I'm glad to be in the vanpool, especially during the rainy dark seasons." Cynthia
"My vanpool coordinator is very informative, helpful and sweet person. I am impressed that the vehicles are taken care of regularly so I never worry about mechanical problems. I am very satisfied overall with all aspects of my vanpooling experience and always look to recommend this mode of transportation to others."
