Vanpool

Overview

What is Vanpool?

Vanpool transit service is a pre-arranged ride-sharing service that enables a group of people, typically ranging four to 15 individuals, to commute together in a van or SUV. These groups usually consist of people who live near each other and work near each other and have the same schedule.

How does CATS Vanpool operate?

The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) has partnered with Commute with Enterprise to create the CATS Vanpool program, an affordable and efficient way to commute. This program helps people save money, reduces traffic congestion and improves air quality by sharing a ride instead of driving alone. CATS Vanpool allows people more choices for getting to work. You can join as a driver, a rider or both and help make commuting better for everyone.

Facts and Benefits:


Saves Money
According to AAA, vanpooling can cut commuting costs by up to 75 percent, reducing expenses on gas, car maintenance, parking and more.


Employer Benefits
Some companies help pay for it and it helps them improve employee attraction and retention efforts. Businesses can also save money through the Commuter Tax Benefit Program.


Helps the Environment
Research from AAA has shown transportation causes 40 to 60 percent of air pollution. Vanpooling reduces fuel use and emissions, improving air quality.


Less Stress
Instead of driving you can relax, read or listen to music while someone else drives.

What we offer:

Vehicles that accommodate as few as four passengers or as many as 15 passengers  
Easy Payment Options: Payments can be submitted in multiple user friendly formats including but not limited to checks, credit cards, and Transportation Incentive Program (TIP) cards. Monthly payments will be sent to Commute with Enterprise by the 10th of each month. Non-payment may result in suspension or removal from the program.

commute with enterprise

Signing up is easy! Visit Commute with Enterprise by selecting the button below.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vanpool?

Vanpool transit service is a pre-arranged ride-sharing service that enables a group of people, typically ranging from four to 15 individuals, to commute together in a van or SUV. These groups usually consist of people who live near each other and work in the same general area.

Who is operating Vanpool?

CATS has entered a partnership with Commute with Enterprise to serve as our vanpool provider. Commute with Enterprise will be the primary administrator for this program, the CATS team will still be here to answer questions and provide support however needed along the way.

Vanpool Options

Vanpool vehicles (Van or SUV) can accommodate as few as four persons and as many as 15.

ADA Vehicles

Vehicles for those with disabilities are available for service. Please ensure to make this request when signing up for vanpool.

Service Area

Anyone can reserve a CATS vanpool as long as the origin or destination is within Mecklenburg County.

Vanpool Drivers

Each vanpool can have as many backup drivers as needed. All potential drivers must be part of the vanpool, complete an application, complete training modules and be at least 25 years old. Commute with Enterprise reviews applications and driving records to ensure eligibility. Once approved, drivers sign a lease agreement with Commute with Enterprise for the CATS Vanpool program outlining their responsibilities.

Vanpool Coordinator Responsibilities

While there can be multiple drivers within a vanpool, there is only one coordinator. A coordinator is a passenger and/or driver who assists with overall operations of the vanpool. CATS and Commute with Enterprise will provide an orientation to help coordinators and back-up drivers understand program guidelines, including safety, maintenance, fare collection and record keeping. Specifics of these responsibilities will be discussed during the onboarding process. If individuals don’t volunteer to become a coordinator, the responsibility will be that of the driver.

Flexible Vanpool

Hybrid work schedule? No worries! The new vanpool program offers a flexible vanpool option which provides a solution for vanpool participants who commute to their worksite on a hybrid work schedule (less than five working days per week) and allows individual payments from each vanpool participant for the actual number of days such participant commutes to and from worksites.

With a Flexible Vanpool Program plan, participants will pay a Monthly Pass fee (“Monthly Pass Charge”) as determined by Enterprise based on an array of pricing factors and the Monthly Pass plan a participant selects.

Vanpool Fares

Vanpool fares are based on vehicle size, number of participants and miles traveled each month. Remember, the more people in the vanpool, the less you will pay out of pocket! Encourage your colleagues to join a vanpool today!

Guaranteed Ride Home

If you have an emergency, need to leave early or unexpected overtime, CATS Vanpool offers four emergency ride trips home every year using an approved taxi car service or transportation network company, such as Uber or Lyft. Participants must submit proper documentation for reimbursement, keeping in mind there is a $75 limit per occurrence. These rides are for emergencies only and will be monitored.

Fueling

Vanpool drivers get a fuel card and personal PIN for fueling. Each fueling transaction is tracked, including driver, vehicle, date, location and odometer readings.

Maintenance

The vanpool group is responsible for making sure the van is fueled and cleaned. Including coordinating all scheduled and unscheduled maintenance. All maintenance costs are covered by the monthly rental payment. If a vehicle needs to be taken out of service Commute with Enterprise will provide scheduled preventive maintenance, emergency repairs, as well as a backup plan. Emergency support will be available nights, weekends and holidays.

Vanpool Etiquette

Vanpooling is all about convenience, savings and a stress-free commute – but it takes teamwork to keep it running smoothly.

Every vanpool group has its own personality – some are lively and chatty, while other are quieter, allowing time for reading or naps. Some groups make decisions together, while others let the coordinator handle things like the route and timing.

The key to a great vanpool is communication. Talk with your group, set clear expectations and make sure everyone is on the same page for a smooth, enjoyable ride!

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