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OPA News Release: [09/30/2004]
Contact Name: Jane Norris or Peggy Abrahamson
Phone Number: 202-693-4676

Labor Department Named One of Greater Washington Region’s Best Workplaces for Commuters

WASHINGTON—The U.S. Department of Labor was named one of the Greater Washington, D.C. Region’s Best Workplaces for Commuters this week on the second annual list of top workplaces for employees that commute in the Greater Washington area. The list is created by a coalition comprised of Washington, D.C. area government, transportation, business and environmental organizations.

“The Department of Labor provides great benefits for our employees who commute from around the region, and we are proud to be recognized as one of the Best Workplaces for Commuters,” said Daliza Salas, director of human resources for the U.S. Department of Labor.

This year’s list includes 187 employers representing more than 176,000 employees, more than double the 76 employers on last year’s list. In order to qualify for the list, an employer must meet a National Standard of Excellence provided by the program’s criteria. The standard includes at least one primary commuter benefit; at least three supporting commuter benefits; a central point of contact for information who actively informs employees of available commuter benefits; and access to a regional or employer-provided Emergency/Guaranteed Ride Home program.

Primary commuter benefits include monthly transits passes, cash in lieu of free parking, or any other financial assistance with commuting expenses. Supporting commuter benefits include more indirect commuting enticement such as carpool/vanpool incentive; day care, dry cleaning and other onsite amenities; lockers or showers for bikers or walkers; and incentives for living near work.

The Washington region has the third worst traffic congestion in the nation. In 2002, the average traffic delay per capita in the Washington area was 67 hours, compared to only 46 hours nationally.

The Best Workplaces for Commuters is a free and voluntary program that honors employers across the country that offer a distinguished package of commuter benefits to employees. The organizations works to improve employee job satisfaction and save money from reduced payroll taxes. For more information, visit www.bestworkplacesforcommuters.gov or www.bwc.gov.

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