Program provides free transportation to Travis Published May 2, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Nicole Leidholm 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- With summer right around the corner and the price of gas expected to exceed $4 per gallon in the bay area, it's no wonder Travis members are turning to the RideShare program to get to work. "The RideShare program is a transportation incentive program," said Shelia Whittaker, 60th Logistics Readiness Squadron budget analyst. "It provides federal employees a ride to work either through a vanpool, bus or train." The government recently increased the allotted funds for the program from $125 to up to $245 per individual. This increase was budgeted during the annual budget check and went into effect April 1. "Anyone can come from any area and create a vanpool," said Nathan Middleton, 60th LRS logistics management specialist. "Analysts track the cost to drive and what the government can authorize for transit." Military members, DoD and non-appropriated funds employees looking to join a vanpool must fill out an application through Whittaker. The 60th Comptroller Squadron manages the vouchers and once approved, individuals get a card with an authorized amount. The cards can be used for train and bus transportation fees. They may also pool their money with other members to rent a van and pay for gas. "This is great because we used to have to pay for gas out of pocket," Middleton said. "With the increase, now it can be used to help pay for gas." The benefits not only include riding for free, but also save on the daily wear and tear on vehicles as well as green house gasses emitted by vehicles. Individuals get six vouchers a year to get a free taxi ride home if something comes up and they miss their ride. "This is a real cost savings to members," Middleton said. "It's the government paying to get you to and from work."