Creative Employer Solutions for Transportation Challenges

A recent episode of Speed & Scale, a podcast from TED, explored how Washington State employers helped solve a transportation crisis—and in the process, reduced both congestion and emissions. Following the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill, the state created its Commute Trip Reduction law, requiring large employers to take responsibility for how employees get to work. Businesses responded with creativity by paying for bus passes, vanpools, offering flexible work schedules, adding telework options long before it was common, and even created car-share systems. 

These efforts worked! Washington's non-drive alone rate is now nearly double the national average, proving that employer engagement can meaningfully shift commute habits. The takeaway is clear: when businesses lead with innovative commute programs, they not only cut emissions but also improve employee satisfaction, retention, and access to opportunity. 

On a local level, WTA partners with Washington County employers to create commute programs that work for them!

• "WTA's support has been instrumental in helping Intel advance our sustainable commuting strategy,"  said Courtney Martin, Intel.
  
• "WTA is a long-term partner in helping us strengthen sustainable commuting options for our employees," shared Carla Chen, LAIKA. 

Contact us to learn how we can help your organization develop creative, effective transportation solutions that meet your goals.

Listen to the full episode: Speed & Scale—​How employers in Washington State solved a transportation crisis