Shift Happens: Rethinking the Commute
On February 24, Commute.org hosted our first in-person Employer Summit since 2019. Shift Happens: Rethinking the Commute, brought together employers from across San Mateo County to share ideas and explore innovative transportation programs that support today’s evolving commute. More than 70 attendees joined the conversation on strengthening commute programs for their teams.
The summit featured three sessions centered on commute planning for hybrid employees, carpool and vanpool programs, and strategies to increase employee engagement in commute initiatives.
- Commute Hacks for Hybrid Teams: Harrington TDM Consulting, LinkedIn, and Genentech shared how they’ve adapted to flexible hybrid schedules, including providing near-demand shuttle services and last-mile commute subsidies. Caltrain also introduced their new tiered GoPass pricing for employers with a hybrid workforce.
- Parking Relief Through Shared Rides: Commute with Enterprise highlighted how vanpool programs can support commuters, especially those traveling from long distances. Rubrik and Stanford University shared real-world examples of carpool and vanpool programs that help ease parking constraints. Attendees also received a preview of the upcoming San Mateo County Vanpool Subsidy Program.
- Shift Into Gear – Pathways to Participation: The San Mateo Union High School District, ZS, Myrta, and UCSF shared practical approaches for increasing employee participation in transportation benefit programs. Some strategies included targeted outreach campaigns, tabling events, and webinars.
Commute.org Program Updates
We announced the theme of this year’s Commuter Challenge, Ride & Shine, and shared a marketing toolkit to help employers spread the word. We also announced our cohort of 2026 certified employers as part of our Employer Recognition Program awards ceremony.
Access to Presentation
For those who were unable to attend the workshop in person, you can revisit the presentation slides here.
We Value Your Input
Attendees are encouraged to submit this feedback form to share ideas for improvement and topics they’d like to learn more about in the future. Share your feedback by Friday, February 27 for a chance to win a $50 e-gift card!
Moving Forward
The summit fostered valuable discussions and reinforced the importance of collaboration in shaping a more sustainable transportation future for San Mateo County. We look forward to continued engagement with employers as we work together to implement and enhance commute initiatives.
For additional questions or inquiries, reach out to employersupport@commute.org.
