May 11-15 Commute Another Way Week goes patriotic

That is the message of the 15th annual Commute Another Way event, a week in May when commuters are encouraged to try a different way to work.

"We're in a time when people are getting used to making sacrifices," says Kish, who runs a statewide database that matches commuters to money-saving options. "This year's Commute Another Way Week is all about choices that pay off in a big way for Mainers every day," said Kish.

Commuting via carpool, bus, vanpool, bike or walking can save Mainers a lot of money, says Kish: A Mainer who commutes five days a week can save at least half the cost of their regular drive-alone commute. It also reduces an individual's carbon footprint, by reducing the amount of auto emissions generated daily.

This year's event, to be held Monday, May 11 through Friday, May 15, will devote one day a week to a different commuting mode. Monday will be "Carpool Monday" followed by "Transit Tuesday," "Vanpool Wednesday" and "Bicycle Friday" timed to coincide with "Maine Bike to Work Day." As in years past, commuters are encouraged to be creative with their commute particularly on "Anything Goes Thursday."

In keeping with the event theme, GO MAINE is offering prizes of U.S. Savings Bonds ranging from $50 to $1,000 for a few lucky winners who participate in the event. To be eligible, commuters must register at the event web site at CommuteAnotherWayWeek.org. Visitors can also download cool event posters from the site.

For more information about the event and money-saving commuter options for all of the above, go to the website or call 800.280.RIDE.