Connecticut To Launch Online Competition To Urge Greener Transportation Habits

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Connecticut state officials are incentivizing commuters to take greener rides to work.

As WCBS 880's Stephanie Colombini reported, officials are urging commuters to try alternative forms of transportation including trains, buses, car pools and bicycles during a weeklong educational campaign.

State Department of Transportation Commissioner James Redeker will kick off CTRides Week on Monday morning by taking a train into Stamford and meeting Mayor David Martin.

As New Haven Transportation Department Commissioner Doug Hausladen explained, CTRides Week is an online competition geared toward Connecticut employers and their staff.

"Employers will square off to see who logs the most CO2 saved and dollars saved," Hausladen said.

Winners will receive prizes. They can also track their trips and earn points that can be redeemed for other prizes including tickets to shows and sporting events and discounts at retailers and restaurants.

Hausladen said the idea is to get more commuters to use the alternative transportation models.

"Employers can lower employees' commute costs, reduce emissions, and improve quality of life," Hausladen said.

More than 36,000 people are signed up for the CTRides program.

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