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03/27/2007: "“Ride Share Program” Gets Sign Of Approval"

Islanders may soon be seeing people standing by these signs, waiting for a ride from an approved participant in a newly approved RideShare program. A sign -similar to the one shown- will designated locations where riders and drivers can safely meet-up to share a trip together.

San Juan resident Liza Michaelson gave a professional presentation in December to the County Council, explaining the program, and asking the Council to adopt it in some form. The idea is simple in concept, and has been successfully implemented in other states . Drivers display a sticker on their windshield that when possible will stop at one of the approved locations to offer a ride to whomever may be waiting. At the December meeting, the council agreed in principle with the program as outlined, and instructed Public Works to come back with a full report

On Tuesday (3-27-07) a public hearing was held by the Council to receive the report from Public Works. County Engineers John Van Lund and Audrey Moreland presented a report that “evaluated suggested rideshare sites for safety and other issues”, including estimated costs of $3.335.00 for signs, and $1,000.00 to get the word outto explain the program.

After a number of questions from the council were answered, Councilman Rich Peterson made a motion to approve the program for “all approved sites”, and to work with Public Works to identify a funding source. According to Van Lund, it is expected there may initially be 13 sites on San Juan, 2 on Lopez, and 1 on Orcas. It is expected that as safety and other issues are resolved, additional sites will be identified and approved to enter the program.

Anyone interested in becoming involved in the program at any level, is invited to contact the group at liza@rockisland.com.