NVTA Kicks off the 2023 V-Commute Challenge

Napa, Calif. – From September 1 to October 31, anyone who lives, works, or goes to college in Napa County can participate in the 2023 V-Commute Challenge. This Challenge aims to get people to use alternative forms of commuting, such as transit, biking, carpooling, vanpooling, walking, or working from home.

“By getting out of the habit of driving alone and finding other ways to commute, people can reduce their commute stress and traffic, as well as improve their health and the health of community,” said Kate Miller, executive director of Napa Valley Transportation Authority. “We live in such a beautiful part of the world, and it’s a great place to try new ways of commuting so you can enjoy Napa Valley’s iconic scenery.”

To participate in the 2023 V-Commute Challenge, participants must:

1. Pledge to commute sustainably on https://bit.ly/CommutePledge.
2. Register on V-Commute: https://vcommute.org/commute-challenge.
3. Log at least three trips per week to be eligible for drawings up to $500.

The Bay Area Commuter Benefits Program lists the many advantages of using alternative forms of commuting:

• Reduced Costs and Tax Savings to Employers and employees. Employers can save money on payroll (FICA) taxes and/or their corporate taxes. Employees save money on their transit, vanpool, or bicycling costs.
• Enhanced Employee Recruitment and Retention. Employer-provided commuter benefits have proven to be a cost-effective tool for increasing job satisfaction and helping recruit and retain valuable employees.
• Better Air Quality and Reduced Health Care Costs. By decreasing motor vehicle emissions, commuter benefit programs can improve air quality, helping to protect public health for all Bay Area residents.
• Decreased greenhouse gas and other harmful emissions can help achieve climate protection targets and better air quality.
• Reduced traffic congestion decreases good movement costs for business and improves air quality.
• Save money on parking. Reduced demand for parking can save employers money or free up land that can be put to better use.

NVTA board members and staff are not eligible for drawings.