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Vanpool FAQs

 

Q: Why should I vanpool?

A: You should vanpool because the benefits of vanpooling are: reduced commuting costs, less wear and tear on your vehicle, a less stressful commute, and conservation of our natural resources. It also helps with reducing local traffic congestion and air pollution.  Some employers offer subsidies to employees who rideshare.  Check with your employer to see if they will help pay your vanpool cost.


Q: How many people does it take to form a vanpool?

A: It takes a minimum of three people to form a vanpool.

Q: What is needed to start a vanpool?

A: To start a vanpool, it takes at least three people and two people must volunteer to be dedicated drivers. One person must be dedicated to being the vanpool bookkeeper. All Kitsap Transit vanpools must start or end in Kitsap County.

 

Q: What are the requirements to become a driver?

A: To become a vanpool driver, you must have at least three years of licensed driving experience, have an acceptable driving record and complete a Van Driver Orientation given by Kitsap Transit.

 

Q: What are the vanpool driver's responsibilities?

A:The responsibilities of the vanpool driver include keeping the interior and exterior of the van clean, fueling of the van, notifying the back-up driver in case of illness or vacation, and, most importantly, the safety of their passengers.


Q: What are the responsibilities of the vanpool riders?

A: The responsibilities of the vanpool riders are to be on time at agreed pick-up locations and with their monthly payments.


Q: How much does it cost?

A: The cost of the vanpool is determined by the size of the van (small or large), the number of members, the daily round-trip miles the van travels and the number of days in a week the van operates. The total cost is divided among the members of the vanpool. Vanpool Fares are paid in advance. (See Fare Schedule)

 

Q: What does Kitsap Transit provide (pay for)?

A: Kitsap Transit supplies the van, and pays for fuel (we supply the driver with a fuel card), maintenance, and insurance on the vehicle.


Q: Do we get to take the van home with us?

A: Yes, you can take the van home with you. The drivers are responsible for providing safe, off-street parking for the van at their residence or at a location approved by Kitsap Transit.


Q: How are fares collected?

A: Vanpool fares can be paid online to Kitsap Transit, click here for more information. Other payment types include checks, commuter vouchers and employer invoicing. The primary contact or bookkeeper is responsible for collecting fares each month.  

 

Q: What happens if the van breaks down?

A: If the van breaks down the vanpool driver contacts our Maintenance department. They will arrange a trade-out as soon as possible to make sure there will be little to no commute disruption on your vanpool route.  The vans are scheduled for regular maintenance to help ensure the reliability of the van.


Q: What happens if I get sick and need to get home during the day?

A: If you need to leave work due to illness or emergency, Kitsap Transit vanpool members qualify for the Guaranteed Ride Home Program. To learn more, visit our Guaranteed Ride Home page.  

 

Q: Can vanpool drivers use the van for personal use?

A: Not at this time.


Q: Who do I contact to get a vanpool started, or if I have more questions?

A: To find your spot in a vanpool, please call your Kitsap Transit Vanpool Coordinator team at 360-478-5858 or e-mail: Vanpool@kitsaptransit.org


 

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