Description
Partnering with carshare providers to launch or expand service in high-density areas and near transit stations offers dedicated parking and discounted membership fees, promoting shared mobility and reducing the need for private vehicle ownership.
Implementation Details
- Launch carshare hubs at multi-family housing, large employment centers, and near Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) pathway/Great Redwood Trail nodes with dedicated parking and EV charging access.
- Develop parking cash-out policies and discounted membership programs in partnership with mobility providers.
- Pilot flexible carshare models in Disadvantaged Communities and transit-poor areas to improve regional mobility and reduce household vehicle ownership.
Mitigation Potential
Carshare programs provide users with access to a vehicle without the need to own one. Carshare programs encourage users to consolidate trips and reduce unnecessary trips, reducing VMT.
For more details, see CAPCOA, T-21-A. Implement Conventional Carshare Program, pg. 150-152 and CAPCOA, T-21-B. Implement Electric Carshare Program, pg. 154-158 for VMT reduction quantification.
Linked Strategies
Equity Considerations
To support equitable access, carshare services should be located in areas with low vehicle ownership, especially near affordable housing and underserved transit zones. Discounted memberships for income-qualified users and multilingual enrollment options can help reduce barriers. Partnerships with local housing developers and nonprofits can ensure outreach and station siting meet the needs of residents lacking private vehicle access.
Funding Sources
Requires staff time to work with car share providers such as ZipCar for implementation and siting of parking locations. One funding source is the Clean Mobility Options Voucher Pilot Program from the California Air Resources Board.
Implemented in TAM Area
Current TDM Implementation
Marin Commutes carshare program uses a mobile app and website to help connect commuters looking to share a ride. Zipcar was an option in the past, but the utilization was too low to maintain operations.
TDM Benefit Locations
Carshare programs can be especially beneficial when combined with mobility hubs, so local jurisdictions should consider implementation at potential hub sites like the new San Rafael Transit Center. Additionally, in suburban and rural areas that lack transit access, carshare can benefit commuters and reduce automobile trips to and from central commercial districts.