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Ecology Action Centre
TRAX Accomplishments
Since 1999, TRAX has been actively promoting sustainable transportation within HRM:
Transit
- U-PASS - TRAX spearheaded initiative to introduce the U-PASS to Metro Transit and HRM Universities. The U-PASS was introduced at Saint Mary’s University in 2003, and at Dalhousie University in January 2006. The Saint Mary’s program resulted in 50,000 additional student rides per month. With more than 25,000 full-time students in HRM the U-PASS is a key opportunity for a guaranteed revenue source for Metro Transit.
- EcoPASS – The EcoPASS is a workplace transit pass that offers a discount, automatic payroll deduction and a permanent transit pass. In Canada, there are more than 10 EcoPASS programs; the Winnipeg EcoPASS program decreased GHG emissions by 150,000kg. TRAX is conducting research on the potential for an EcoPASS in HRM – next steps will include a pilot project, full-scale implementation and promotion.
- Metro Link – TRAX helped HRM develop a proposal to the federal Urban Transit Showcase program, resulting in HRM receiving $4M for a Bus Rapid Transit pilot project. The Cole Harbour and Sackville routes will save 750,000kg of GHG annually.
ADAPT
- ADAPT - TRAX coordinates ADAPT (Association of Doctors for the Advancement of Physically-active Transportation). ADAPT members highlight the links between sustainable transportation and health at media events, panel discussions and in letters to decision makers.
Cycling
- Bicycle Blueprint - TRAX encouraged HRM to develop a Bicycle Blueprint. This document has resulted in the formation of a Bicycle Advisory Committee (BAC), on which TRAX participates. BAC activities have included printing an HRM Cycling Map and organizing HRM’s 2005 Bike Week.
Canadian Commuter Challenge
- Canadian Commuter Challenge - Since 2000, TRAX has coordinated the participation of workplaces and schools in this national event. In 2004, more than 1,500 people participated, preventing 32,000kg of GHG emissions.
Trip Reduction Programs (TRPs)
- TRPs – TRAX is the only organization in the Atlantic Provinces to offer TRPs. TRPs are workplace-based programs where incentives - such as transit ticket sales, priority carpool parking, and fleet bicycles - are put in place to encourage employees to use sustainable modes of transportation. TRAX has implemented more than ten TRPs.
Transportation Demand Management (TDM)
- TDM Position – In 2001/02, HRM hired its first TDM employee (at the time called the Bicycle/Pedestrian Coordinator). TRAX identified the importance of, and provided funds to establish, the part-time position. In 2005, the position is being expanded to two full-time permanent positions.
Tel.: 902-429-0924
Website: www.ecologyaction.ca/trax
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