As part of an ongoing effort to expand affordable, convenient, and environmentally sustainable commuting options, the Town of Truckee is proud to introduce a new vanpool pilot program in partnership with Commute with Enterprise. This innovative transportation initiative provides a flexible and cost-efficient alternative for individuals commuting between Truckee and Reno.
Through this pilot program, participating commuters can select from a range of qualifying vanpool vehicles, including crossovers, SUVs, minivans, and large passenger vans. Each van is managed through Commute with Enterprise and includes 24-hour roadside assistance and all-inclusive pricing that covers fuel, insurance, maintenance, and repairs. Riders share the monthly cost, making it a reliable and affordable option for employees traveling long distances.
Enhanced Subsidies for Truckee-Based Employees
As part of the new vanpool pilot program, the Town of Truckee is offering a $800 monthly subsidy per vanpool to support workers commuting between Truckee and Reno. This subsidy is exclusive to the pilot and is designed to make shared commuting significantly more affordable for employees working within the incorporated Town limits. It complements the existing $400 monthly subsidy from the Regional Transportation Commission of Washoe County for vanpools originating in Washoe County.
Together, these layered incentives reduce the total cost for participants, making vanpooling an economical choice and a convenient and community-supportive transportation solution.
"Vanpooling is more than just a ride-sharing option; it's a critical strategy to improve air quality, reduce congestion, and expand connectivity for our workforce," said Alfred Knotts, Town of Truckee Transportation Program Manager. “While the commuter vehicle is intended solely for travel to and from town and not for use during the workday, a range of flexible and convenient transportation options, including fare-free TART Connect and the BCycle Bike Share Program, make it easy to stay connected and mobile throughout the day without relying on a private vehicle. This effort directly supports our Council's priorities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve access to clean, reliable transportation."
A Flexible and Scalable Pilot Model
The vanpool pilot is live, and funding is available for 18–19 vanpools, each eligible for a full 12 months of Town-provided subsidy. However, participation is based on when a vanpool group forms. For example, vanpools that start now can receive subsidies through mid-2026, while later sign-ups will be funded based on remaining grant availability.
Interested commuters and employers are encouraged to sign up early to take advantage of these limited funds.
“Vanpooling gives commuters time back in their day and helps them save on transportation costs,” said Sirus Karimi, Vice President of Commute with Enterprise. “We work closely with our partner employers and public agencies to offer convenient vanpool programs that help reduce congestion and support more sustainable transportation networks.”
Open to All Truckee-Area Workers
Employees of any business located within the incorporated Town of Truckee may participate—whether they join individually, through their employer, or as part of a community-based group. While coordinating a vanpool within a single organization is often easier, mixed-employer vanpools are also possible and encouraged where viable.
This program complements the North Lake Tahoe Vanpool Program launched in 2024 by the Truckee/North Tahoe Transportation Management Association in coordination with Placer County and the North Tahoe Community Alliance.
For more information or to inquire about joining or forming a vanpool, employees and employers can contact Commute with Enterprise directly to explore options.
Grant funding is limited. Sign up now for this cost-saving, community-enhancing commuting solution while subsidies remain available.
