Carpooling pays Published June 18, 2010 By Staff Report ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Robins officials are continually looking for ways to improve traffic on base, and are encouraging the use of a government-funded Transportation Incentive Program as one solution. To help motivate workers to carpool, the federal government implemented the TIP, a benefit program aimed at offsetting commuting costs for active duty military members and DoD civilian employees, as well as reducing pollution and traffic congestion, preserving the environment and expanding transportation alternatives. While the program has existed since 2000, increased traffic, a higher cost of commuting and a stronger emphasis on preserving the environment has pushed the program into the spotlight. Master Sgt. Donald Payne, 78th Logistics Readiness Squadron's Vehicle Operations Control Center, said most base employees are eligible for the program, both as drivers or passengers, but drivers must have a six-passenger vehicle. Passengers receive up to several hundred dollars each month, which is paid to the driver. Payne said the commuting program benefits employees financially, potentially saving them thousands of dollars every year. "Employees can avoid the stress of driving, avoid wear and tear on their vehicles, do their part for the environment and do it all with a $230 incentive, paid by the federal government," Payne said. Payne said if employees take advantage of the program, they will help reduce traffic on congested roadways leading into Robins, which is especially important with the closure of one of the main gate entrances. However, the real winner is the environment. "Transportation affects air pollution, water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions and even quality of life," Payne said. "Robins has always strived to be an environmental leader, so we embrace ideals that benefit the environment. " Signing up for the program does not obligate anyone to carpooling, and people can choose to carpool only two or three days per week if they wish. To learn more, call 926-7199.