Name: Sheila
Occupation: Administrative Assistant
Employer: Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce
Gets around by: Bus, Link, Car
Where do you live and where do you work?
LIVE near Tacoma Community College.
WORK at the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce.
How do you get there?
WALKING to the bus stop; BUS ride into town. On those rare times when I have to drive into town, I park at the Tacoma Dome Station, and take the trolley [Link Light Rail] in.
How does it all add up? How much money or time do you save?
What is most beneficial is that where I live is on the bus line. Not only do I save wear and tear on my vehicle driving in-city; but it is MUCH more convenient to just ride a bus for 20 minutes or so than to spend the time driving in commuter traffic, parking at the Tacoma Dome Station and waiting for the trolley, which takes about 45 minutes.
What’s in it for you?
I intentionally walk uphill to the next bus stop in the morning; so I get in some exercise before work. Then, I use the commute time to do some reading (or just enjoy the scenery). I log my commutes in PierceTrips.com, which shows me a breakdown of “savings” (monetary, environmental, time, etc). Convenience is the biggest benefit.
Do you have any tips for people who may be trying these modes for the first time?
My perspective is from commuting to and from downtown Tacoma. See if your employer can adjust your schedule to accommodate an easy commute; as some bus schedule times change according to rider volume during the day. Also, be flexible. Life is an adventure; so is commuting by public transportation. Enjoy the ride!