EASTGATE Rideshare program regains popularity

The program's database includes about 600 people from three counties.
By DENISE DICK
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
AUSTINTOWN -- Soaring gas prices this past summer piqued interest in a long-time program offered by Eastgate Regional Council of Governments.
Kathy Zook, senior planner with the council, said that Rideshare has been offered since the 1970s.
When gas prices neared $3 per gallon in late summer and early fall, interest in the program spiked. The council also bumped up its advertising of the program at that time.
"I was getting multiple calls per day," Zook said.
The idea behind the program is to reduce the number of single occupancy vehicles, or SOVs, aiming to cut down on the number of vehicles on highways.
That cuts down on air pollution and traffic congestion.
Participants fill out a one-page form, listing where they're coming from, their destination and the times of travel. That information is compiled in a database and a computer program does the matching, Zook said.
In five to 10 business days of completing the form, a participant will receive a list of possible matches and their contact information. It's up to the individuals to contact potential matches and coordinate arrangements.
The ride-sharing can be weekly, a couple of times a week, daily or however those involved design it.
"It's very flexible," the planner said.
No match, no problem
Even if a match isn't made, Eastgate informs the people who apply about other methods of transportation like WRTA and its route schedule.
Zook said that the database includes about 600 individuals. The council's Rideshare program covers Mahoning, Trumbull and Ashtabula counties.
Most who pursue ride sharing are traveling longer distances to work such as in the Akron, Cleveland or Pittsburgh areas.
Because unpredictable events like required overtime or a sick child that needs tending can crop up and alter a person's travel plans, the program offers a guaranteed ride home.
For up to four times per year, an individual who has to find an alternate ride home will get reimbursed for up to $75 for expenses like cab fare.
To register for Rideshare, go to Eastgate's Web site at www.eastgatecog.org or call (800) 825-RIDE or (330) 779-3800.