Commuter awareness event highlights transportation options, new buses

Commuter awareness event highlights transportation options, new buses

By Ben Hutto, PSNS & IMF Public Affairs

BREMERTON, Wash. -

Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility hosted a Commuter Fair for command employees outside Building 850, Oct 9.

Several booths were set up to provide information to the workforce on various commuting options and available parking, both on and off base.

Commuting options aren't just available to day shift employees, said Para Kan, management and program analyst, Code 1101.2, Command and Military Support.

"Most of our commuting issues occur on day shift, however, other shifts have access to rideshare options as well. If you can get at least four riders commuting together, you can qualify for a van with little-to-no out-of-pocket costs," Kan said.

The event also unveiled three new Worker/Driver buses to command employees.

"These are the first brand new Worker/Driver buses we have ever had," said Katie Perry, command support agreements manager, Code 1101, Command and Military Support. "The command is working to reduce employee stress by promoting information on alternative ways to get to work."

The buses were purchased following a grant Kitsap Transit received, which the Navy supported, Perry said. Carpools, vanpools and the Worker/Driver program were also highlighted during the event as ways to help make getting to work easier for employees.

John Clauson, executive director, Kitsap Transit, was also on hand during the event.

"In the past, we couldn't justify giving (PSNS & IMF) a new bus because the vehicles were only in service twice a day for four to five hours total," he said. "This is a great improvement for everyone. These are brand new vehicles with zero emissions. It's a wonderful way to commute and we hope people will take advantage of them. Take a nap or read a book on the way home. Let the bus driver deal with the stress."

Clauson said the stair cases on the new buses can be lowered to accommodate workers with mobility issues, and the buses are equipped with seats on the lower level which can be adjusted to accommodate wheelchairs.

Employee Food Services provided free lunches for employees during the event while they engaged with the various transportation authorities about alternative commuting options.

Kan, who helped organize the event, said he was grateful for the support provided by the various shops and codes within the command.

"We had great support from Shop 38, Marine Machinist; Code 1102, Administrative Office; MWR Employee Food Services; and Code 900F.21, Building/Facilities Management." Kan said. "Our attendees asked to be invited for another commuter event if we hold one again next year."