Oct. 11 press conference to outline UW-Madison partnership with Community Car

UW–Madison Transportation Services has recently contracted with Community Car to expand car-sharing services on campus, making it only the second university in the Midwest to offer car-sharing.

Through this partnership, UW–Madison Transportation Services plans to add two new cars and locations on campus every year for the next 3 – 5 years. During a press conference to announce the plan on Tuesday, media representatives can hear from UW–Madison and Community Car leaders on how this novel partnership will benefit the campus community.

The press conference will be from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. in front of the stage area of Library Mall. Speakers include Lance Lunsway, director of UW–Madison transportation services; and Amanda White, executive director of Community Car.

Lunsway says he believes Community Car will increase alternative transportation use on campus. “We’re happy to provide the resources needed to expand Community Car service,” he says. “UW faculty, staff and students may feel more comfortable taking advantage of the free bus pass and other transportation options, knowing they still have access to a reliable car should a last minute need arise.”

Through the new contract, Community Car will maintain the current car location at Helen C. White Hall, plus provide a new Prius Hybrid at both the UW Hospital (lot 79) and the Biotech Center (lot 20). Over the next 3-5 years, additional cars will be added to these locations for heightened availability, plus new locations will be added to other campus neighborhoods. Potential sites include Grainger Business School, Eagle Heights, the Engineering Quad and new residential developments established through the Campus Master Plan.

Because several people can use one Community Car parking stall, the need for more parking lots is reduced. Currently, each Community Car vehicle services 50 members while maintaining excellent availability. “Community Car effectively addresses some of the transportation goals within the Campus Master Plan, such as a reduced need for additional parking on campus, which saves the university money that can be used on other projects,” says Lunsway.

By adding the new campus vehicles and car locations, the neighborhoods surrounding the university also benefit. “Because all Community Car vehicles are open to all members, residents living in surrounding neighborhoods experience the positive effects of having a Community Car nearby,” says White. “By aggressively expanding Community Car on campus, the university is not only providing a valuable service to the campus, they are also supporting the greater good of our city by promoting less traffic congestion in and around campus, improving air quality and fostering ‘community spirit.'”

Smart Toyota is also supporting Community Car through a major gift – donating the use of two new Prius Hybrids on campus. For more information on Community Car or press conference details, contact White at (608) 204-0000, amanda@communitycar.com.

Visit campus transportation services at www.fpm.wisc.edu or call (608) 262-2666 for more information on Community Car, the free bus pass, flex parking or other transportation options.