Editorial: State carpooling program can set example elsewhere

By: Editorial | Opelika Auburn News
Published: July 23, 2008

In an era where the term “wasteful spending” is all too common, it’s encouraging to see the state government search for measures to save money from within.

This week, Gov. Bob Riley urged state employees to ride together to work. Carpooling is a long-standing practice used by thousands of Americans looking to save a dime at the gas pumps, so encouraging employees to ride together isn’t a foreign concept.

“This is a great service I hope state employees will use,” Riley said. “It helps them combat high gas prices and reduces traffic on our roadways.”

Whether or not the difference on state highways is actually noticeable or if it makes a fraction of a dent on gas prices, the plan should be viewed as a message, not just to state employees, but also as a hint to Alabamians looking to cut costs. If state employees are riding together to work, why can’t we?

Carpooling does have its disadvantages. When you drive, you control the time you are picked up, you control the route you take and you pretty much control whatever stops you want to make along the way.

Carpooling can be an inconvenience, particularly if members of the pool are inconsiderate. Sometimes carpooling simply isn't an option.

The program “Commute with Company” targets state employees who drive long distances to work. Applicants submit their information to a secure online database at www.personnel.state.al.us, which searches for potential ride partners.

“We realize that many state employees drive long distances to and from work, and our goal is to help state employees find someone with whom to share their commute,” State Personnel Director Jackie Graham said.

Such a program isn’t the administration’s first in the fight against fuel consumption. Last year, the state began using a majority of E-85 capable vehicles, those able to run on alternative and basic fuels, last year. More “flex fuel” vehicles will be added to the fleet in the future.

Alabama is one of the nation’s leaders in the search for alternative fuels.High gas prices and consumption has become a national, if not worldwide problem. It’s good to see Alabama’s state government taking a stand to fight both.

A program used by state employees can serve as an example everywhere else.