Vanpool
Are you interested in a cheaper, less stressful way of getting to work?
Vanpooling is a great way to save money and help the environment!
What is Vanpooling?
Vanpooling is similar to carpooling, except there are more people involved. A vanpool is a group of 5 to 15 people who regularly commute together in a comfortable van, minivan, or SUV, usually from a distance of 15 miles or more. The van is leased through a rental company, and all the members of the vanpool share the cost of the lease.
How Much Does it Cost?
While the cost of a vanpool can vary, vanpool riders can save up to 70% in commute costs when switching from driving alone to vanpooling.* Caltech provides a monthly subsidy of $100 per rider, and Metro offers an additional $300 per month toward the cost of the lease.
How do I Join a Vanpool?
If you are interested in vanpooling, please contact Todd Swart in the Commuter Services office at todd.swart@caltech.edu, or log in to CaltechRideshare.com to find Caltech vanpools in your area.
What if I Can't Ride in the Vanpool Every Day?
Each vanpooler qualifies for 6 free daily parking permits per month to use in the event that they need to drive their personal vehicle.
Why Should I Vanpool?
- Save money - The average vanpooler in Southern California saves more than $1,500 a year on gas, car maintenance and wear and tear.
- Less Stress - Studies show that people who vanpool arrive at work relaxed and ready to start the day-more so than their co-workers who drive alone.
- Get to work faster - By utilizing carpool lanes, many vanpoolers reduce their commute by as much as 20 minutes each way.
- Cleaner air less smog
- More relaxed arriving at work
- More relaxed arriving home
- Make new friends
- Free reserved parking
- Caltech subsidy
- Metro subsidy
- Guaranteed ride home
- Lower insurance rates on personal car
- Use of carpool lanes
To put your name on our list of interested vanpoolers, please fill out the Vanpool Interest Form or email Todd Swart at todd.swart@caltech.edu