SERVICES
VANPOOL COMMUTE
OVERVIEW
About Vanpool Commute
Big Bend Transit makes commuting easier, more affordable, and eco-friendly with our Vanpool Program. Whether you’re traveling to work, school, or another regular destination, you can share a comfortable van with other commuters and split the costs. Our friendly team is ready to help you find or start a vanpool that fits your schedule and needs. Monthly rates vary depending on mileage and group size.
Vanpool pick-up and drop-off locations, as well as travel schedules, are flexible and determined by the needs of each vanpool group, making it easy to coordinate rides that fit everyone’s commute!
What Is the Vanpool Program, and How Does It Work?
The Vanpool Program allows a group of 4–11 commuters to share a comfortable, fully maintained van for their daily trips. One person volunteers as the primary driver and coordinator, often receiving a discount on their monthly fee for taking on this role.
Riders typically meet at designated pick-up points, such as Park and Ride lots, with drop-off and pick-up locations tailored to the needs of the group. Costs for fuel, maintenance, and insurance are shared, making commuting more affordable, convenient, and stress-free.
Vanpool
Frequently Asked Questions
In a typical vanpool, 4–11 commuters ride together, each contributing a low monthly fare for a comfortable, fully maintained van with all maintenance, repairs, and insurance included. Not only is the cost of fuel shared among riders, but everyone also saves on wear and tear on their personal vehicles—cars don’t depreciate as quickly and require less maintenance.
For some commuters, joining a vanpool even means avoiding the purchase of a new or used car, providing a reliable, cost-effective solution for daily long-distance travel.
Riders share a monthly fee that covers the vanpool lease and fuel, with the lease cost based on the total miles traveled each month. All maintenance, licensing, and insurance are included, so commuting is hassle-free.
Many employers can also help offset the cost through an IRS-approved Commuter Choice fringe benefit program, providing both convenience for employees and potential tax savings for the company.
Vanpool schedules are flexible—simply coordinate with your fellow riders. You may be able to adjust your pickup or drop-off location to be near a shopping center, bank, or other errand stops. On days when errands don’t fit the vanpool schedule, you can also choose not to ride.
Our 11-passenger vans are designed specifically for commuter comfort. Each van comes with air conditioning, individual vents, an AM/FM radio, and an automatic transmission, ensuring a smooth, convenient ride for every passenger.
All vanpool participants make a month-to-month commitment. If you need to leave the vanpool, simply provide 30 days’ notice, giving the group time to find a replacement rider. This system keeps the vanpool running smoothly while accommodating your schedule.
Each van has a backup driver to ensure the vanpool keeps running if the primary driver is unavailable. Riders are responsible for their monthly fare, even on days they don’t ride, helping maintain the program’s consistency and reliability.
Ready to Start Your Vanpool?
Get in touch with us today! Our team will help you set up a vanpool, coordinate schedules, and make commuting easier and more affordable.
