Life and Work

Local businesses receive Way To Go! commuter challenge awards

BRATTLEBORO—Two Brattleboro-area businesses have earned recognition for their efforts to promote alternative transportation: bicycling, walking, taking the bus, and carpooling. Landmark College and New Chapter, Inc., joined several Vermont businesses in receiving awards for their participation in the Way To Go! Commuter Challenge, held May 14 to 18.

Both businesses signed up more than 20 percent of their employees to take the challenge, each earning recognition in the medium size business category (100-299 employees).

“We were thrilled with the response from our staff. People were inspired and motivated to commit to alternative transportation for the week and I’ve no doubt there has been a lasting effect.” said Barbi Schulick, co-founder of New Chapter.

The Way to Go! Commuter Challenge is an annual statewide event promoting more economical, environmentally friendlier, and safer alternatives to driving solo. Individuals, schools, businesses, and communities throughout the state participated in the week-long program this past May. Results from 2012 also can be viewed at www.waytogovt.org.

More than 250 towns in Vermont and neighboring states, and more than 400 organizations and businesses competing for both recognition awards and the Way To Go! Carbon Cup. More than 3,500 people pledged to use cheaper, healthier, and more earth-friendly transportation alternatives to driving alone. Together, commuters saved more than 300,000 vehicle miles for the week and nearly $70,000 in transportation costs while reducing CO2 emissions by close to 300,000 pounds in one week.

The 2012 Way To Go! awards will be presented at a reception in Vergennes in early September with community, school, and business leaders on hand to share their success stories.

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