When Carla Fugazzi, an employee at Fee and Munson Architects in Pleasanton, discovered she was required to report at the company's office in San Francisco on occasion, she considered her alternatives. She could take BART, which can sometimes be inconvenient; or she could drive, which could take up to two hours in traffic; or better yet, she could join a carpool!

"Since I was only going to be an occcasional rider, I didn't think my chances of joining any type of pool would be very good!” says Carla. But she called RIDES anyway. "When I called, they said they'd put my information into the computer and see what turned up,”  she remembers.

A few days later, Carla received a computer print-out, with several names of riders and drivers who would be traveling routes similar to hers. On her second call, Carla connected. Byron Marler had room in his van for an occasional rider, so Carla was in luck. "I was so surprised that it worked out!" Carla states happily. "The ride was very enjoyable, and you arrive when they say you're going to arrive!" Those who ride the van all work within a close proximity to one another, so walking from van to office is held to a minimum.

The company provides a convenient method of transportation in a comfortable van, which saves time for its passengers. Drivers of the vans ride free through the risk-free third-party leasing plan, while riders share the expense which average $.04 a mile. Vanpooling is an excellent idea for
those who need transportation to a common area. If you would like to know more about Rides For Bay Area Commuters, Inc., you may call (415) 861-POOL or (408) 996-POOL. The service will match you up with commuters in your area.

To see a reproduction of the original article and edition of Pleasanton Pathways, visit: June 4, 1984 Pathways.