The COMET is introducing The COMET Vanpool, a one-year pilot to subsidize 20 vans at $500 per month – not to exceed $120,000 per year – if the van originates or ends in Richland or Lexington Counties. The service is provided by Commute with Enterprise.
Commute with Enterprise’s van pricing starts at $950 and will vary depending on vehicle selection. The company offers various makes and models, including seven-passenger SUVs, Toyota Siennas, Ford Transit Vans, Nissan Pathfinders, as well as various types of luxury vans. Amenities such as bike racks and wheelchair lifts can be added for an additional cost. The van pricing does not include gasoline, van washing and taxes. However, companies and employees, can pursue pre-tax benefits through the IRS to subsidize a portion of the costs.
When emergences arise, Commute with Enterprise provides a Guaranteed Ride Home Program for when vanpool participants need an earlier ride home due to unforeseen circumstances.
The COMET Vanpool is meant to be a service that will help determine the implementation of future bus routes if demand is present. Potential destinations that The COMET Vanpool would target include WP Rawl, CMC Steel, Amazon, China Jushi, Nephron, Samsung and TRANE, as well as other companies with large commuter populations.
“The average driver spends about $600 a month on fuel and vehicle expenses, whereas the average vanpool rider spends about $80 to $150 a month, based on seven passengers contributing to the cost,” said John Andoh, Executive Director and CEO of The COMET. “By joining a vanpool, you can avoid commuting’s wear and tear on your vehicle and save money on transportation by splitting the cost with fellow riders.”
To start a new vanpool or register for an existing vanpool, call 1-800-VAN-4-WORK or visit www.commutewithenterprise.com.
