Travis encourages ride share program to "go green and save green"

  • Published
  • By Derrick Morley
  • 60th Force Support Squadron

TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Travis Air Force Base, California, personnel might be interested to know the federal mass transit benefits program for 2018 rose to a $260 monthly maximum allowable amount for qualifying transportation via vanpool, bus, ferry or train.  This is compared to 2015’s federal mass transportation monthly benefit amounts of $130.

For personnel at Travis AFB, government-issued personal debit cards are distributed after the application process is complete. There are financial incentives for Travis AFB personnel to “go green and save green.”

This is a valuable initiative since the opening of the Fairfield/Vacaville Train Station. Carmen Chan, 60th Civil Engineer Squadron community planner, relayed that she and other riders often bike from the station to base via the Forbes pedestrian gate off of De Ronde Dr. for ease and safety.  Bikers are advised to familiarize themselves with the Forbes gate prior to utilization due to limited hours that reflect the local school schedule.  There are other alternatives from the train station as well including the community bus and also app-based services such as Uber and Lyft. 

The Department of Transportation subsidizes a bicycle benefit program for $20 per month for commuters who bike to and from work.  This policy reimburses for bicycle-associated commuting costs such as bike locks, bike upgrades, repairs and general maintenance. Managing to commute, share or bicycle two to three days a week greatly increases the environmental benefit by reducing the carbon footprint of our community. Bicyclists can also reduce daily stress through getting exercise and fresh air.

“This program is a win-win for us here at Team Travis,” said Derrick Morley, 60th Force Support Squadron community readiness specialist and Travis mass transportation benefits program manager at the Airman and Family Readiness Center. “These transportation benefits put money back in the pockets of our Travis team members, improves air quality and reduces traffic congestion.”

Travis AFB can reduce their carbon footprint, help mitigate the impact of climate change, lessen their commuting costs and reduce daily stress by participating in this program.

Travis military members, Department of Defense and Numbered Air Force employees interested in learning more or obtaining application materials are encouraged to contact Morley at 707- 424-2486 or at derrick.morley.1@us.af.mil. Travis members are also invited to stop by and speak with Morley for more information about the Mass Transit Program or any other services offered at the Airman and Family Readiness Center.