Carpooling increases as gas prices rise

Carpooling increases as gas prices rise

April 12, 2005

By STEVE GEHLBACH
6 News Reporter

KNOXVILLE (WATE) -- Many Knoxville residents have traveled one person to a car, until recently. As gas prices keep increasing dramatically, more motorists are looking to share rides and costs.

The garage door comes up before the sun Tuesday morning but Zella McPherson's car stays put. It's Peggy Smith's week to drive to work.

"What it really saves, it saves the wear and tear on our car and it saves gas, especially since it's gone up so expensive now," McPherson says.

Smith explains how they started carpooling. "We work in the same department and we live close together, so it just makes sense."

It also saves a few cents riding into downtown together each day. They also like having each other's company on the ride. "It's lonesome. I enjoy it, enjoy riding with her," McPherson says.

The pair enjoys cutting back on about a half a tank of gas a week, too. "I'm saving by carpooling. It does save."

Representatives with a program designed to help decrease congestion, pollution and driving alone called Smart Trips expect to see more commuters like these two.

"We've been receiving a lot of phone calls just because people are trying to find some alternative to paying all that money for gas," Jill Wolverton says.

By 7:30 a.m., McPherson and Smith arrive at work and don't have to hunt for a parking spot. Carpooling has advantages, such as access to the once off limits garage at the City County building.

April 16th-23rd is Smart Trips week in Knoxville. Besides carpooling, you're encouraged to bus, bike or walk to work.

Some events during Smart Trips week include a commuter challenge, free Saturday rides on all KAT buses and a bike ride to work on April 21st with Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam.