Traveler Spotlight

Occupation: Lead IT Specialist

How do you usually get to work? Why did you decide to commute this way? 

I have a hybrid commute, utilizing a combination of Transit, Carpool and Bicycle when I can. I take my bicycle to the closest transit center, lock up my bike there, and then board the bus for the remainder of my commute to my workplace. I like that the bicycle parking area has overhead coverage to keep my bike protected from the rain, and that C-Tran staff and other riders are there to deter theft. When the weather gets consistently rainy, and it gets dark during the winter- I carpool to and from my bus stop(s) with help from my family, coworkers, and neighbors.

How long have you been using this commute option? 

I’ve used transit off and on since August 2022. I only recently got my bike up and running, so I’ve been hybrid commuting since May 2024.

How far is your commute? How long does it take you each way?

I live near the Columbia Tech Center in East Vancouver, but my worksites are near Central Park/Ft Vancouver, so my one-way commute is roughly 12 miles and takes about an hour all together.

What is your favorite thing about your commute? 

I like being able to read and listen to music while traveling. This year, I’ve really enjoyed viewing the Spring flowers and Fall leaves enroute.

What is a challenge of your commute? How have you overcome that challenge?

My shift schedule has a later end-time than most, so my commute is sometimes affected by C-TRAN missed trips or delays. I’m lucky to have a few route options that get me close enough to home, and the Transit app really helps me stay on top of those last-minute changes.

Tell us a favorite or interesting commute story.

When I worked at Disneyland, I commuted via transit regularly because I didn’t have access to a car. My shifts regularly ended after midnight, and on Sundays one of my normal connecting buses didn’t operate. I had to take a bus from Disneyland to Downtown LA to catch a 3am night connection bus from LA to Long Beach. It’s just one example of how transit isn’t always thoughtful about figuring out who, when, and where transit options are needed. Sometimes users must get creative to get where they need to go.

How does your commute help you save time and/or money?

My commute choices help me save money by drastically reducing the amount of fuel I use through the week. I’ve been able to cut my gas use to about half what I was using when I drove my own car everywhere.

How does your employer help accommodate your commute option?

They participate in the commute reduction program which offers rewards for commuting! They have bus ride passes available in case your normal commute option is not available. That helps alleviate any carpool anxiety.

Do you have any advice for someone looking to use a climate-friendly commute option?

I’ve talked to so many people who have expressed fear about riding the bus, and my advice is to be prepared: know where your planned boarding and disembarking stops are, what route(s) service those stops or ones close-by in case of an interruption and have your fare ready when the bus approaches. If you have access, download the Transit App Transit – the best app for buses and trains and any other apps for your service provider- they often offer schedules, route-planning, and live tracking.