The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), in partnership with the Napa Valley Vintners and Visit Napa Valley today launched Napa Valley Forward, an innovative commute program for Napa Valley wine and hospitality industry employees that provides incentives for carpooling and vanpooling, riding public transit, and walking or bicycling to make workers’ commutes easier and to relieve the valley’s vexing traffic congestion. The employer-focused initiative harnesses data to customize alternatives to solo driving for each participant.
Workers who enroll in Napa Valley Forward can receive subsidies such as Clipper card value equal to a 31-day VINE transit pass or $50 gas cards for registered carpools. Participants who log commute trips on the program’s website can earn rewards such as free coffee, gift cards and vouchers to local businesses; with extra reward points for those who walk or bike to work. In partnership with Lyft, a Guaranteed Ride Home is also available to Napa Valley Forward participants in case of an emergency or unscheduled overtime. Participating employees can use the Guaranteed Ride Home program up to four times per year with a maximum fare coverage of $125 per Lyft ride.