Texas commuters facing construction along Interstate 35 have a new way to share the drive — and potentially earn money in the process.
Commuters can earn rewards for logging shared trips through a carpool program that helps people find travel partners between Kyle, Buda, and Austin, according to KXAN.
Here's what to know
CAMPO has launched We Ride I-35 in partnership with CTXGO to help people with compatible commutes find one another. A compatible match means heading toward similar destinations at similar times, so both the route and commuting schedule factor into the search.
Riding only as a passenger is an option; participants can instead drive or take on both roles. Meeting points and travel times are left to the commuters to choose after they have been matched.
More background
We Ride I-35 is available through the regional Transportation Demand Management initiative run by CAMPO as construction continues along the interstate connecting these communities.
The program also includes a backup option for eligible carpoolers through CTXGO's Guaranteed Ride Home feature. If an unexpected situation arises, the benefit provides a free ride home. For passengers, that backup can help if they need to leave outside the group's agreed-upon schedule.
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Coverage is subject to eligibility requirements.
What can be done?
Travel times, intended destinations, preferred meeting places, and willingness to drive give CAMPO the information it needs to identify compatible carpool partners. Interested commuters submit those details through an online interest form, KXAN noted.
Pickup arrangements remain in commuters' hands. Matched participants coordinate the details of their shared commute rather than receiving an assigned arrangement. CAMPO handles the matching and helps new carpool groups get started.
Commuters may also be eligible for CTXGO Commute Rewards. The incentive is tied to logging carpool trips, with potential earnings of up to $5 per day. The CTXGO Commute Rewards incentive has a maximum payout of $150 for qualifying participants who log their carpool trips.
Where can I learn more?
Roadwork, transit changes, and travel costs also affect how people get around elsewhere in Texas. These stories cover Austin transit fares, statewide transportation investments, and Dallas toll costs.
• Austin's CapMetro is weighing its first fare hike in over a decade, potentially adding 75 cents.
• Texas has unveiled a $138 billion transportation plan spanning 10 years, including a Montana Avenue overhaul.
• A Dallas driver says one toll road trip costs 86% more than an hour's minimum-wage earnings.
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