To encourage employee participation in travel demand management programs employers might consider offering some of the following incentives. These incentives are divided between those that can be done in the short term, with moderate planning efforts, and those that require more long term planning effort.

Short Term Incentives

• Subsidize bus fares
• Host contests and activities for top green commuters
• Offer free breakfast to people who green commute
• Relax the dress code on certain days

 Long Term Incentives

• Subsidize carpooling or vanpooling
• Qualify for a section 132(f) tax deduction. Commuter Tax Benefits Summary
• Provide use of company vehicle or van for rideshare.
• Designate preferential parking for rideshare
• Reimburse bicycle commuters for expenses incurred from commute to work
• Engage in partnerships with your community to leverage funding to benefit employees
• Purchase and install bike racks

 For more information on incentives check out the following links and resources:

On January 1, 2009, the qualified bicycle commuting reimbursement was added to the list of qualified transportation fringe benefits covered in section 132 (f) of the Internal Revenue Service Code.

For more information on fringe tax benefits visit: the IRS’ Guide for Employers to Fringe Benefits like the Bicycle Commuter Tax Reimbursement

Visit the League Bicycle Commuter Tax Reimbursement Cards to download cards for your workplace.

Telecommuting is receiving increased attention due to the National Telecommuting and Air Quality Act of 1999 (HR 2084/Public Law 106-69, Section 365) that introduces a market-based incentive program to encourage telecommuting. The pollution-credit program allows businesses with teleworkers to gain pollution credits that can be sold to other businesses.