Smart commuting means less polluting

Challenge offers incentives to get Triangle residents out of the driver's seat

Triangle workers and college students are the targets of a seven-week, three-county campaign started Tuesday to curb traffic congestion and air pollution by promoting alternatives to solo driving.

The SmartCommute Challenge offers prizes, merchant discounts and other incentives to encourage commuters to leave their cars at home at least once between now and Sept. 30.

People who commute to workplaces and campuses in Wake, Durham and Orange counties are invited to promise that they'll try telecommuting from home or traveling by carpool, vanpool, bus, bicycle or shoe leather.

"Longer commute times not only lead to higher stress levels but to more air pollution," said Ed Willingham, executive vice president of First Citizens Bank, at the SmartCommute kickoff meeting. "And due to pollution, we've seen increases in ozone-induced asthma in children, and adult health issues including severe sinus problems and migraine headaches."

The annual campaign started five years ago with employers at Research Triangle Park and was expanded last year to include the three counties. It is sponsored by RTP employers, the Triangle Transit Authority and the Triangle Air Awareness Coalition, a clean-air advocacy group.

To sign the SmartCommute pledge or to learn about commuting options, go to www.SmartCommuteChallenge.org online or call 485-7475.