CC, the Casual Carpool

By: Chris Greacen - 01/18/2008
I've been commuting into San Francisco from the 'burbs for the past few years. I'm in the 'bridge and tunnel' set -- a moniker that references two of the worst hazards in the bay area. As commutes go it's not the worst in the world but it has little to celebrate between the time spent, cost, and carbon footprint.

At least I have options. The bart reaches my town. One unanticipated option is the Casual Carpool. Using CC, a driver can pick up two riders and get into the carpool lane in the bridge. Riders & driver benefit.

I heard about the CC a while ago; I heard about the rules:

• The carpool is free
• Keep the chitchat to a minimum
• Keep the radio low
• No coffee in the car
• Drivers, keep your car clean
• The driver decides the route

Which as it turns out, is pretty close to the 'official rules and etiquette'. I've met some nice folks from my neighborhood and learned some handy shortcuts on the way to the city.

Find a CC pickup location near you and give it a try sometime.