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Transportation Tip Thursdays

Are you feeling restless at home? Twice a week this spring and summer, the Barre City Energy Committee is posting to the Energy Committee's Facebook page, actions you can take to save energy. These are posted on "Transportation Tip Thursday." Share with your neighbors (virtually!) to help make Barre City an even greater place to live, work and play.

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your experiences, stories, and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or send us an EMAIL #TransportationTipThursday

January 28, 2021:  GET YOUR BIKE, BOOTS, OR SHOES READY!

 

It’s Transportation Tip Thursday and the Barre City Energy Committee wants you to know about the upcoming Vermont Winter Walk/ Bike Challenge running from February 1st-12th.

Participants who record a bike ride, a walk, or a run on the Go! VT Smartphone app or Go! VT Website at least twice during the Challenge timeframe will be entered to win prizes from Vermont businesses.

Prizes include $100 gift cards to Outdoor Gear Exchange and $100 gift cards to Farm Way (all gift cards can be used online).

Download the app by clicking here: https://govermont.agilemile.com/. Most years this ride, walk, or run needs to be a commute, but for 2021, we are excited to open the challenge to anyone who gets outside and get moving, even just for fun!

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your opinions in this survey, and your experiences, stories and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or EMAIL us at barrecityenergycommittee@gmail.com #VoiceYourOpinion #YourOpinionMatter

 

 

April 23, 2020:  A Wheelie Great Idea!

Bikes are a great way to travel and stay active! Before venturing out on the road, it is wise to do a quick bicycle safety check. Tune in to listen to DARREN, owner of Vermont Bicycle Shop, to learn how. For further assistance, schedule a bike check-up at your favorite bike shop. For more guidance, check out these DIY tips at POPULAR MECHANICS.

Itching to get outside? Consider these great places to ride in Barre City at our own VERMONT BICYCLE SHOP, and throughout Central Vermont.

Stay tuned for some upcoming fun biking events for both kids and adults planned in May. Remember to wear a mask and helmet, and stay safe outside. #TransportationTipThursday

 

 

 

   

April 30, 2020:  Inflate and Save!

Millions of gallons of fuel is wasted each year in the U.S. in driving with under-inflated tires. According to the Department of Energy, you can improve fuel efficiency by as much as 3%, not to mention, enjoy a more comfortable ride and less wear and tear on tires. Tune in to JARED at Routhier Quick Lube and Auto Center to learn how to check and fill your tires to the right pressure. Call your favorite gas station for details on self-service air and tire pressure check. Some charge a $1.00 fee while others are free. Make it a habit and request a tire pressure check with your next oil change or service.

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your experiences, stories, and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or send us an EMAIL#TransportationTipThursday

   

May 7, 2020:  Holy Walkamolie!

This week, the focus is on the benefits of walking. Walking not only boosts your mood, doing it regularly can keep you healthy. Try planning to walk more, now or once we're back to a more normal routine. Make it part of your commute and shopping, instead of driving. With fewer vehicles on the road, more people are walking for exercise instead of making a car trip to the gym. Check out this article for more details on the BENEFITS OF WALKING especially during these times. Next week we'll highlight how to earn discounts, rewards and prizes for walking trips and other GREEN TRAVEL CHOICES at Go! Vermont. Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your favorite walking routes, experiences, stories, and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or send us an EMAIL.  

   

#TransportationTipThursday

   
   

May 14, 2020:  ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW TO GO!

Even if you aren't driving much now, it could be a great time to plan a better commute or review how you travel. Transportation is Vermont's largest greenhouse gas sector and often the single biggest household expense. Check out the Go! Vermont. Learn about your travel options, including knowing where the BUS IS AT (remember to wear a face covering!). Join and earn points, discounts, rewards and prizes every time you choose to walk, bike and work from home. Explore tools for carpooling for when we're through this pandemic. If you are traveling green now, or decide to start, you can earn rewards by joining and recording your GREEN TRAVEL TRIPS.

Feel secure with Go! Vermont's Guaranteed Ride Home, a reimbursement for a cab ride home (up to $70), in case you get stuck. Learn more about this EMERGENCY RIDE HOME PROGRAM, a great benefit to those who join Go! Vermont, and its free!

Share with your neighbors (virtually!) to help make Barre City an even greater place to live, work and play.

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your favorite walking routes, experiences, stories, and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or EMAIL us #TransportationTipThursday

   
 

May 21, 2020:  A WHEELIE GREAT ADVENTURE CHALLENGE

This week, we encourage you to choose to bike before driving somewhere first. Remember to socially distance and wear a face covering--to the store, to the Doctor's or to just have fun with friends and family.

Up for a fun challenge? Darren of the Vermont Bicycle Shop has organized a great month of fun biking adventures.
Combine your trip with some fun challenges by participating in "Take a Kid Adventure Biking Month". Capture some pictures, earn points, have fun and kids might win prizes.

Learn more HERE. Questions: contact Darren during business hours at 802-622-8222. Check out this list of maps and routes to get started and get moving. Make sure to wear your face covering and helmet and be safe outside. Check out Barre, VT Bike Trails and Maps!

Look for #BarreCitySaves and share your experiences, stories, and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or WRITE US. #TransportationTipThursday

   
   

May 28, 2020:  Telecommuting - Free Resources to Save Time and Save Money Too!

This week, we're re-posting a tip from Dan Currier of Go! Vermont. For those who are able, telecommuting is a great opportunity to stay home, stay safe and reduce your carbon footprint. Benefits also include a better, more sustainable work life balance, time saved by eliminating your commute, and cost savings associated with travel.

And with improvements in technology like video conferencing, file sharing, and increased internet bandwidth, working remotely is more accessible than ever. Go! Vermont, in collaboration with many entities with a shared vision work to help Vermonters reduce the cost and environmental impacts of driving. Given the current coronavirus outbreak, many of us have transitioned to working from home and will likely do so for some time.

Consider making this a long-term practice for at least part of your work week. We're here to help. For more information on telecommuting, its benefits and tips for success, visit: https://www.connectingcommuters.org/resources/remote-work-telecommuting/ Questions: please contact transportation expert, Dan Currier, Go! Vermont Coordinator and Public Transit Manager at VTrans.

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your experiences, stories, and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or WRITE US#TransportationTipThursday

   
 

June 4, 2020:  GMT BUS IS FREE and SAFE to RIDE

Well, it's "Transportation Tip Thursday," brought to you by the Barre City Energy Committee. Every week we feature ways to save energy and have fun too.

This week, we're featuring Green Mountain Transit, an essential service running regular service on large buses to accommodate social distancing. What better time than now to let someone else do the driving and enjoy your ride for FREE.

Find specific schedules and routes online at https://ridegmt.com. Remember, face coverings are required to ride the bus.
Stay informed on COVID-19 updates at: https://ridegmt.com/covid-19-update/.
Questions? Reach out to the friendly staff at the GMT call center at (802)-540-2468 between 7 am - 4:00 pm. If you need a door-to-door ride, or a volunteer driver, call (802)-223-7287 to learn about your options.
Ever wonder where the bus is? Download this handy real time transit app https://transitapp.com/.
Get service alerts by signing up here https://bit.ly/2TXU4uR.
Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your experiences, stories, and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or WRITE US
#TransportationTipThursday

   

June 11, 2020:  EARN REWARDS, GET DISCOUNTS, AND TRAVEL GREEN ON THE GO!

When was the last time you looked at the travel options available to you (e.g., bus, bike, walk, carpool, vanpool and telework)?

Did you know that Go! Vermont has a free trip planner that enables you to see all the available options. And joining the hundreds of Vermonters choosing to travel green allows you to earn rewards (cash giveaways and discounts to local businesses) just by recording your green trips instead of driving alone.

Don't know what green travel options are available for you? Click here, https://govermont.agilemile.com/index.php?rides=true, and explore your options through Go! Vermont's improved TRIP PLANNER. Check out the next bus, where it stops and the route schedule. You might take note of any nearby carpools or vanpools, too. Consult with the call center with any questions of safe travel choices at 800-685-RIDE (7433).

Go! Vermont has many great available tools, including a TRANSIT app showing you where the BUS IS AT (remember a face covering is required to ride the bus!).
Join the hundreds of Vermonters earning points, discounts, rewards and prizes every time they walk, bike and work from home. Share with your neighbors (virtually!) to help make Barre City an even greater place to live, work and play.

 

June 18, 2020 - THINKING ABOUT A NEW CAR PURCHASE?

Well, its "Transportation Tip Thursday," brought to you by the Barre City Energy Committee. Every week we feature ways to save energy and have fun too. This week we feature Drive Electric Vermont and how they can help you make the switch to an electric car –https://www.DriveElectricVT.com.

Why go electric? It’s more efficient, easier to maintain and better for the environment than gas powered vehicles--plus they can charge using standard home outlets. Concerned about range and cost? Check out the list of vehicle options and incentives here https://www.driveelectricvt.com/Media/Default/docs/fact-sheet-drive-electric-vermont.pdf

For a great overview and introduction including owner experiences and more, check out this webinar including related resources at https://www.driveelectricvt.com/webinar-may2020. You can also contact them with questions at info@DriveElectricVT.com

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your favorite electric car experiences, stories, and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or EMAIL US #TransportationTipThursday

   
 

 June 25, 2020 - IT MIGHT BE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK!

Well, its "Transportation Tip Thursday," brought to you by the Barre City Energy Committee. Every week we feature ways to save energy and have fun too. This week, the focus is on the benefits of walking.

Now that the weather is warm, have you noticed you are walking more? Walking not only boosts your mood, it keeps you healthy. Consider making walking part of your daily commute to do errands, go to work or visit a friend.

Wondering how far away your destination is? Use Google Maps and Go!Vermont's FREE app to track your walking trip. Earn points and start collecting your rewards and prizes for walking and other green trips here: https://govermont.agilemile.com/index.php?rides=true . Save on gas, greenhouse gas emissions, and your health!

Get involved and ramp up your steps this summer by signing up for Come Alive Outside's 100 Miles 100 Days walking challenge! Register with this link and establish healthier walking habits: https://comealiveoutside.com/mile-a-day/
Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your favorite walking route, experience, stories and questions on Barre City Energy Committee's Facebook page, or WRITE US.   #TransportationTipThursday

   
 

 July 2, 2020 - GET YOUR PEDAL ASSIST ON!

Well, its "Transportation Tip Thursday," brought to you by the Barre City Energy Committee. Every week we feature ways to save energy and have fun too. This week, the focus is on the benefits of electric bikes.

Climbing the hills of Barre on a bicycle just got easier. Ever considered using a battery assist powered bicycle instead of a car to run an errand or commute to work or school? Check out this quick video and great resources at Drive Electric Vermont https://www.driveelectricvt.com/ebikes
For a bike consultation, contact Dave Cohen at http://www.vbikesolutions.org/free-bike-consultations.html

For a limited time only, GMP customers will receive a $300 rebate for electric assist bikes purchased at your local bike shop. For a complete list of bike shop locations and more details visit this link: https://greenmountainpower.com/product/ebike-rebate/ .

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and #BarreSaves and share your favorite bike route, experience, stories and questions on Barre City Energy Committee's Facebook page, or WRITE US at  #TransportationTipThursday

   
 

 July 9, 2020 - ON THE GO! TRIP PLANNER

Well, its "Transportation Tip Thursday," brought to you by the Barre City Energy Committee. Feeling antsy to be on the go? Go! Vermonters that plan their trips can save money as well as earn great discounts and rewards. Whether it's for health, cost savings, or the environment, the benefits of using Go! Vermont's dynamic trip planner and services are many- including feeling good about being active and social while on the go.

Go! Vermont makes your trip a whole lot easier. Click here, https://govermont.agilemile.com/index.php?rides=true and begin exploring your options. Call 802-685-RIDE (7433) for specific guidance and to learn more. Join Go! Vermont for free and earn rewards (cash giveaways and discounts to local businesses) for each green trip that is recorded instead of driving. Be safe, wear a mask and follow state protocols. Traveling green can be done safely.

Wondering, "where's the BUS?" Track it here: https://www.connectingcommuters.org/transit-bus-app/.

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your favorite travel routes, experiences, stories, and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or WRITE US #TransportationTipThursday

   
 

 July 16, 2020 - ONE LESS CAR!

Well, its "Transportation Tip Thursday," brought to you by the Barre City Energy Committee. Many Vermonters are driving a lot less these days. Have you noticed your car sitting unused most of the time? Some people are taking action by donating their vehicles for COVID response services. Others working from home, are choosing to reduce the number of household vehicles to one. In doing so, they save money and enjoy using a greener, more efficient form of transportation for part or all of their trips.

The SAVINGS ARE BIG. AAA estimates the average annual cost to own and operate a fairly new vehicle to be $9,000. Imagine what you might do saving thousands of dollars each year. Contact Good News Garage in Burlington, 877-GIVE-AUTO (877-448-3288) or Sierra Club https://sierraclubfoundation.careasy.org/HOME.html about making a donation.

One less car can help Barre City be even greener. Consider shedding the second car and enjoy the benefits of a more active lifestyle, more time in your day, fewer car trips, and more space in your garage, wallet, and mind.

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your favorite car efficiency experiences, stories, and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or WRITE US   #TransportationTipThursday

 

   

July 23, 2020 - HOLY WALKAMOLIE AND COME ALIVE OUTSIDE

Could more of your errands be accomplished on foot in the City? According to Town Meeting survey results, 14% indicated they walked for their most recent trip and 40% said walking would appeal to them besides driving alone.

Think about the trips you can make on foot instead of driving alone. Ramp up your steps this summer by signing up for Come Alive Outside's 100 Miles 100 Days walking challenge! Register with this link and establish healthier walking habits: https://comealiveoutside.com/mile-a-day/

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your favorite walking route, experience, stories and questions on Barre City Energy Committee's Facebook page, or WRITE US#TransportationTipThursday

 

July 30, 2020 - WORKPLACE COMMUTE CONSULTS FREE

Looking for a transportation expert? Have questions about workplace commuting, teleworking and the transportation options and incentives available to you and your employees?

Get a free consult from the mobility experts at Go! Vermont, your one-stop-shop, one click-one call at www.connectingcommuters.org or 802-685-RIDE (7433).

To schedule a free workplace consult, call Deb Sachs, Go! VT Business Coordinator, 802-238-9807 or email deb@netzerovt.org or find employer resources online here: https://www.connectingcommuters.org/resources/for-employers/

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your experiences, stories and questions on Barre City Energy Committee's Facebook page, or WRITE US.
#TransportationTipThursday

   

August 6, 2020 - GETTING TO WORK, SCHOOL & HOME-FREE RESOURCES

Well, it's "Transportation Tip Thursday," brought to you by the Barre City Energy Committee. Every week we feature ways to save energy and have fun too.
As schools and businesses reopen, you might be feeling overwhelmed about how to manage transportation while social distancing, avoiding crowds and wearing masks.
We know your challenges and there are people ready to answer your workplace, medical and commuting questions.

Whether it's traveling to school safely, teleworking or knowing your travel options, resources around the state can help you get to where you need to go and earn incentives too. If you’re a business, employee, student or senior in need of a ride, let the mobility experts at Go! Vermont help.

Go! Vermont provides technical assistance and an online one-stop-shop at www.connectingcommuters.org or dial 802-685-RIDE (7433). Workplace and school questions: contact Deb Sachs, at Go! VT 802-238-9807 and/or deb@netzerovt.org.

Teleworking questions? Contact these great Vermont experts for free resources:

Bethany Fleishman, bethany@vitalcommunities.org https://vitalcommunities.org/transportation/telecommute/making-it-work/ and

Dan Currier, Go! VT and Public Transit Coordinator. https://www.connectingcommuters.org/resources/remote-work-telecommuting/

   

August 13, 2020 - GUARANTEED RIDE HOME -- ATTENTION EMPLOYERS & EMPLOYEES

Well, it's "Transportation Tip Thursday," brought to you by the Barre City Energy Committee. Every week we feature ways to save energy and have fun too.

Did you know that if you carpool, vanpool or take the bus to work and miss your carpool ride home, you are eligible to be reimbursed up to $70 for a cab ride home in the event of an emergency (sick family member)? Learn more about this and other free incentives when you join Go!Vermont. Don't forget to wear a face covering!

Click here to learn more https://www.connectingcommuters.org/programs/guaranteed-ride-home-benefit/ about the Guaranteed Ride Home and feel secure about not being caught without a ride when you travel green.

Go! Vermont's experts are ready to provide technical assistance. Visit online, Go!'s one-stop-shop at www.connectingcommuters.org or dial 802-685-RIDE (7433).

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your experiences, stories and questions on Barre City Energy Committee's Facebook page, or WRITE US#TransportationTipThursday

   

August 20, 2020 - EMPLOYER TIPS FOR WORKPLACE COMMUTING

Are you an employer weighing the merits of continued tele-working and looking for tips to safely reopen for business? Have questions about how to address the needs of employees who are juggling their time between work and home? Want to know how to help employees and their families address transportation problems including lost time in mid-day trips to pick up children from school?

Contact the experts of Go! Vermont.

Learn about free resources and incentives available to you and your employees? Get a free workplace consult from the mobility experts at Go! Vermont, your one-stop-shop, one click-one call at www.connectingcommuters.org or 802-685-RIDE (7433). Have questions: call or email Deb Sachs, Go! VT Business Coordinator at 802-238-9807 and/or deb@netzerovt.org.

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your experiences, stories and questions on Barre City Energy Committee's Facebook page, or WRITE US.
#TransportationTipThursday

   

August 27, 2020 - MAKING ERRANDS GREEN- MAX WINS BIKE ADVENTURE CHALLENGE

It's Transportation Tip Thursday, brought to you by the Barre City Energy Committee. This week we’re inspired by Max Laperle (age 12) of East Montpelier who won this year’s “Take a Kid Adventure Biking Month” organized by the team at Vermont Bicycle Shop. Max earned the most points in this year’s challenge and had fun participating. He noted that the Bicycle Shop’s Adventure month helped him stay active through the pandemic.

Max was encouraged by his Mom, Kelsey, an avid cyclist and a preschool teacher at Barre Town School. She heard about the challenge from bike shop owner, Darren.

In the end, she and Max rode to nearly all the spots suggested on the scavenger hunt. Max noted his favorite was picking up takeout from Fairway and Greens, the first since the Governor's Stay Home, Stay Safe Executive Order.

Max and his Mom made the effort to complete the whole challenge which stems from their love of biking and a desire to spend less time in the car.  As Max commented in the interview, “Most moms drink coffee in the morning, but my Mom goes for super long bike rides.”  When asked about their experience, both said they wanted to see safer bike routes and more riders around town.

As residents of East Montpelier living on a big hill, bike rides are a workout! Max would like to do more errands by bike, but nearby services are limited and the hilly geography makes it tough to do errands like grocery shopping by bike.

For Kelsey, biking is part of her lifestyle, incorporating regular trips to the bookstore, bike shop, and delivering honey to friends. She’s an inspiration to her children, Alicien and Max, and to all on how to bike safely in rural Vermont.

For the full interview, click HERE and enjoy!

Kudos to the Vermont Bicycle Shop for leading the way to encourage and expand green transportation options in a fun way.

Thanks to Darren and Ginger for organizing the “Take a Kid Bicycle Adventure” into a month long event. “During this time, when group events are not allowed due to the pandemic, it made sense to turn this annual one-day event into a month of fun for families.”

Darren’s creativity behind the challenge made it fun to participate for both young and old and inspired families to explore and discover how cycling can be a part of their daily routine. “We applaud Max for taking the initiative to earn 97 out of 100 points in completed trips,” says Darren.

Biking is not only fun, but a good way to do daily errands and get your daily exercise in too. Visit your favorite bike shop to get tips and ideas on where to ride.

Contact Darren for more information at Darren@vermontbicycleshop.com (802) 622-8222, or visit the store in person at 105 N Main St. #102, Barre, VT.
For more bike commuting options and bike safety resources, visit the Go! Vermont page: https://www.connectingcommuters.org/biking/.  Stay tuned for more adventures coming soon!

MAIL US your stories about your bike adventures or give us suggestions on how to improve biking in Central Vermont and Barre. #TransportationTipThursday

   

September 3, 2020 - WORKPLACE COMMUTE CONSULTS FREE

Looking for a transportation expert? Have questions about workplace commuting, teleworking and the transportation options and incentives available to you and your employees?

Get a free consult from the mobility experts at Go! Vermont, your one-stop-shop, one click-one call at www.connectingcommuters.org or 802-685-RIDE (7433).

To schedule a free workplace consult, call Deb Sachs, Go! VT Business Coordinator, 802-238-9807 or email deb@netzerovt.org or find employer resources online here: https://www.connectingcommuters.org/resources/for-employers/

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your experiences, stories and questions on Barre City Energy Committee's Facebook page, or WRITE US
#TransportationTipThursday

   

September 10, 2020 - SEPT 21-27th, VERMONT BIKE TO WORK, EARN REWARDS AND DISCOUNTS FOR CHOOSING TO COMMUTE GREEN

Vermont Bike to Work week is right around the corner (Sept 21-27). What better time than now to explore and earn great discounts and rewards by traveling green safely (e.g., walk, bike, and more)!

Few people know that joining Go! Vermont is free and that you can earn rewards (cash giveaways and discounts to local businesses) just by choosing and recording your green trips instead of driving alone. Don't know what green travel options are available? Click here, https://govermont.agilemile.com/index.php?rides=true, and explore your options through Go! Vermont's improved TRIP PLANNER (showing all your trip options in just one click).

Consult the call center with any questions on safety travel choices at 800-685-RIDE (7433) Go! Vermont has many great tools available for free too https://www.connectingcommuters.org/

        Home - Go! Vermont

Welcome to Go Vermont! from bus routes to rideshare matching, it’s Vermont’s best resource to find all the ways to go. Whether you’re looking for better ways to commute or to help reduce the cost and environmental impact of driving, when you join Go!Vermont you’ll not only get up-to-date info, but also earn rewards! It’s easy and free, so start taking the bus, walking, telecommuting ... www.connectingcommuters.org

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your favorite walking routes, experiences, stories, and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or WRITE US#TransportationTipThursday

   
 

September 17, 2020 - NEED A DEPENDABLE RIDE TO WORK, CONSIDER A VAN-POOL AND WE’LL PROVIDE THE VEHICLE

It's Transportation Tip Thursday and the Barre City Energy Committee wants you to know that four or more colleagues who share a similar commute and schedule, can ride together safely to work at a fraction of the cost of driving alone. Everything is included in the van rental with Go! VT's general support, including the insurance, maintenance and keys.

Go! Vermont and its official Commute with Enterprise partner will provide you and co-workers with a comfortable and dependable van or SUV to use at a LOW cost. Learn more here, https://youtu.be/_b33CUbabyA.  Go! Vermont's generous subsidy helps cover much of the cost of gas, insurance, and repairs.

No loan or down payment is needed, only a month to month lease. Remember to wear a mask and follow Vermont health guidelines and learn how easy it is to get a van or SUV within a couple weeks from Commute with Enterprise. You and/or a co-worker can take turns driving and even keep the van at your home. Learn more at Go! Vermont https://www.connectingcommuters.org/vanpool/ or call 1-800-685-RIDE (7433)

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your bus experiences, stories and questions on Barre City Energy Committee's Facebook page, or WRITE US#TransportationTipThursday

   
 

September 24, 2020 - CAPSTONE'S MILEAGESMART PROGRAM CAN HELP YOU BUY YOUR NEXT CAR!

Well, it's "Transportation Tip Thursday," brought to you by the Barre City Energy Committee. Every week we feature ways to save energy and have fun too. Did you know that qualified applicants can get a MileageSmart incentive of 25% of the purchase price — up to $5,000 — towards a used, high efficiency car. Not only will this incentive help bring down your monthly payment, but you’ll be investing in a high miles-per-gallon vehicle that will save money, and the planet, for years to come.

The process is simple: apply for the MileageSmart incentive online, set up your car loan to finance the rest of the purchase price, and then find an eligible car! Click here to learn more and start your application https://www.mileagesmartvt.org/apply.

To be eligible for the MileageSmart incentive, applicants must be 18 years or older, meet the income qualifications, as well as a few other guidelines. In order for a vehicle to be eligible, it must be used, sold through a Vermont dealership, and get at least 40 per gallon (or the electric equivalent). Visit the MileageSmart website to learn more about eligibility, to see example vehicles and payment plans, learn about Capstone’s recommended lending partners, as well as FAQs and additional resources. Questions, email admin@mileagesmartvt.org and/or phone 1-800-639-1053.

Remember to combine trips, and carpool safely (wearing a mask) to save even more money and greenhouse gas emissions. Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your experiences, stories and questions on Barre City Energy Committee's Facebook page, or WRITE US#TransportationTipThursday

   
 

October 1, 2020 - IT'S GO TIME! WAY TO GO! WALK & BIKE TO SCHOOL CHALLENGE STARTS NEXT WEEK

Well, it's "Transportation Tip Thursday," brought to you by the Barre City Energy Committee. Every week we feature ways to save energy and have fun too.

Schools across Vermont are encouraging walking and biking to school and we applaud your efforts. To help encourage, celebrate and incentivize those students, faculty and staff doing their part, we invite you and schools to organize an event and join the Fall Way to Go! Transportation Challenge opening next week, October 5-16, 2020 for a chance to earn points and rewards. Simply walk, bike or roll to school, safely, at least once for all or part of your commute to school between October 5th -- 16th. Be sure to wear your masks, social distance and have fun too.

Click here http://bit.ly/WTG20Brochure for specific details on how schools can participate. Then, report to your school Way to Go! coordinator and log the school activity to be eligible to win great incentives and prizes from Way to Go! partners and sponsors including a new bike from Earle's Cyclery, reflective safety gear, Darn Tough Socks, cloth face coverings and more. For general details go to: www.waytogovt.org and for assistance contact: Deb Sachs at deb@netzerovt.org or phone 802-238-9807.

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your transportation experiences, stories and questions on Barre City Energy Committee's Facebook page, or WRITE US#TransportationTipThursdayTF

   
 

October 8, 2020 - SHOW US YOUR WAY TO GO! TO SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION TRIP ON FACEBOOK!

Well, it's "Transportation Tip Thursday," brought to you by the Barre City Energy Committee. Every week we feature ways to save energy and have fun too. This week and next is the Fall Way to Go! to School Transportation Challenge. Schools across Vermont are encouraging walking and biking to school and we applaud their efforts.

We hope you are using people-powered transportation options or sharing a ride safely, wearing a mask and social distancing. To help encourage, celebrate and incentivize those students, faculty and staff doing their part, we hope you visit waytogovt.org to learn more and organize a fun commute activity anytime between October 5-16, 2020 for a chance to earn points and rewards. Simply walk, bike or roll to school, safely, at least once for all or part of your commute to school between October 5th -- 16th. Be sure to wear your masks, social distance and have fun too.

Post your photos and experiences at https://www.facebook.com/wtgvt/ Then report to your school Way to Go! coordinator to log any green transportation activity to be eligible to win great incentives and prizes from Way to Go! partners and sponsors including a new bike from Earles Cyclery, reflective safety gear, Darn Tough Socks, cloth face coverings and more. For general details go to: www.waytogovt.org and for assistance contact: Deb Sachs at deb@netzerovt.org or phone 802-238-9807.

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your experiences, stories and questions on Barre City Energy Committee's Facebook page, or WRITE US#TransportationTipThursday

   
 

October 15, 2020 - TRAVEL TO WORK FOR ALMOST FREE, GO! VT DOUBLES ITS VANPOOL SUBSIDY!

It's Transportation Tip Thursday and the Barre City Energy Committee wants you to know that vanpooling is a more affordable option to get to work. With just four or more co-workers who share a similar commute and schedule, you can ride together safely for VERY little cost! Everything is included in one low monthly cost through Go! VT's official partner, Commute With Enterprise.

No loan or down payment is needed, only a month to month lease. Learn how easy it is to get a recent model van or SUV within a couple weeks from Commute with Enterprise. You and/or a co-worker can take turns driving and even keep the van at your home. Remember to wear a mask and follow Vermont health guidelines.

Learn more at Go! Vermont https://www.connectingcommuters.org/vanpool/ or call 1-800-685-RIDE (7433). For a free workplace consult, contact Deb Sachs at 802-238-9807. Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your shared travel experience, stories and questions on Barre City Energy Committee's Facebook page, or WRITE US#TransportationTipThursday

   
 

October 22 & 29, 2020 - Have you made a plan to Vote? Earn rewards when you Walk & Roll!

It's Transportation Tip Thursday and the Barre City Energy Committee encourages you to make a plan to vote on or before November 3rd and earn rewards and prizes when you walk or roll to vote. Did you know you can cast your ballot 24/7 through COB 4:00 pm on November 2nd right at City Hall?

Not registered to Vote? Do so at City Hall 8 am. to 4:00 pm. on Tuesdays & Thursdays (closed lunch hour). You can then vote on the spot.

Registered? Simply drop off your completed ballot (in drop box) located in front of or back of City Hall, 6 North Main Street till 4:00 pm. November 2nd. Prefer to vote in person, polls open November 3rd at 7 am - 7 pm. at the Auditorium.

We encourage you to feel good about walking or biking to vote. Be safe, wear a mask and social distance. Then simply log your trip by clicking here, https://govermont.agilemile.com/index.php?rides=true

Consult the call center with any questions on safety travel choices at 800-685-RIDE (7433). Go! Vermont has great green travel tools and free incentives, too! https://www.connectingcommuters.org/

Look for the hashtag #BarreCitySaves and share your favorite biking and walking routes, experiences, stories and questions on Facebook with the Barre City Energy Committee, or EMAIL US#TransportationTipThursday