EVALUATING RIDE-SHARING PROGRAMS - MASSACHUSETTS EXPERIENCE

This paper presents the major results of an evaluation of Massachusett s' effort to promote ride-sharing. The results suggest that serious co nsideration be given to refocusing the state's ride-sharing activities . An attempt should be made to work more closely with major employers in order to develop site specific, employer ride-sharing programs, and , wherever appropriate, the state should use the assistance of Transpo rtation Management Associations (TMAs). It is also pointed out that ca rpooling is increasingly unpopular, and that to reverse this trend nat ionally (and in Massachusetts) under existing economic conditions will challenge transportation professionals. Qualitative and quantitative data were secured through personal interviews with participating gover nment agencies; in addition, some 100 employers and over 2,500 commute rs were interviewed. Survey instruments designed and employed in this evaluation may be of interest and use to other statewide and metropoli tan ride-sharing agencies.