October 20, 2003

The La Sierra University Security Department was awarded a trophy during the 12th Annual Employer Partnership Awards Ceremony, recognizing the trailblazing efforts of Riverside County employers and representatives.

October 2003

La Sierra University has around 800 employees, 10% participate on a quarterly basis. LSU has consistently won awards since 1995.

“I think people have fun getting together for lunch and socializing,” says Doug Nophsker, La Sierra University Director of Security and campus Employee Transportation Coordinator. “Our quarterly luncheon is not like any other program that does that and gets money for participating.”

By reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT), Advantage Rideshare and Option Rideshare reduce emissions of NOx, VOCs, CO, and PM. Since Advantage Rideshare's inception in 1991 and Option Rideshare's inception in 1993, the two programs have had 10,001 and 5,731 commuter participants, respectively. Collectively an estimated 28.8 million VMT have been saved, leading to estimated emission reductions of 49,381 pounds for NOx, 49,306 pounds for ROG (reactive organic gases, or VOCs), 33,042 pounds for PM10, and 425,103 pounds for CO.

Advantage Rideshare and Option Rideshare represent a unique partnership of county governments, employers, commuters, and local merchants. Integration of the two "sister" programs – accomplished through inter-agency cooperation – means ease of implementation and reduced administrative costs for the currently 1,893 participating employers in Riverside, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, and Orange Counties. For example, employers can offer the same rideshare incentives to employees who live in different counties.

Employers participate in Advantage Rideshare and Option Rideshare by offering the incentives as part of their benefits packages. They are responsible for enrolling employees and verifying that the programs' requirements are being met. The gift certificates are distributed by RCTC through the employer at the end of the three-month incentive period.

Advantage Rideshare was developed after a 1⁄2 cent per dollar sales tax increase was approved in Riverside County in 1988. Proceeds from the tax increase were designated for transportation improvements, including "commuter assistance." The tax continues to be the program's sole revenue source. Option Rideshare is financed from a similar 1⁄2 cent sales tax in San Bernardino County and from State funds.

All participation and pounds of pollutant figures are for these programs through June 30, 1997.

Contact: Tammy Fisher
Director of Public Relations
La Sierra University
Riverside, California
(951) 785-2016 voice
tfisher@lasierra.edu