BITK - Transportation Alternatives
Getting Around Memphis: Transportation Options for Hospitality Workers
Are you a hospitality worker in Memphis facing transportation challenges? You're not alone, and thankfully, there are several resources available to help you get to and from work. This post outlines some key transportation options that can make your commute smoother and more affordable.
Memphis Area Rideshare Program (MARS)
The Shelby County Health Department offers the Memphis Area Rideshare Program (MARS) to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. This program encourages alternatives to single-occupant vehicles, such as carpooling, vanpooling, biking, or using public transit. Active MARS members have a partnership with Bluff City Taxi for emergency rides home. For more info, visit: https://www.shelbytnhealth.com/163/Memphis-Area-Rideshare-Program
Commute with Enterprise
Enterprise provides a vanpooling service that connects employees by area of town. This service offers SUVs or vans for weekly commutes, saving on fuel, parking costs, and vehicle wear and tear, while fostering community among coworkers. Learn more and sign up at: https://www.commutewithenterprise.com/en/locations/memphis.html
My City Rides
My City Rides is a Memphis-based non-profit that helps overcome transportation barriers. Their "Flyer Program" offers lease-to-own motorized scooters with affordable monthly payments over three years. This includes scooter training, licensing assistance, safety gear, insurance, and maintenance. Check them out at: https://mycityrides.org/
Explore Bike Share
Explore Bike Share provides an e-bike sharing program across Memphis. This affordable option can help employees access jobs and other essential destinations. Benefits include low-cost alternatives to car ownership, increased accessibility to jobs, flexibility with 24/7 availability, health and wellness benefits, and potential employer partnerships. Find more information at: https://www.explorebikeshare.com/
Downtown Memphis Commission Support
The Downtown Memphis Commission (DMC) offers discounted monthly parking at $30/month in three downtown garages: 250 Peabody Place (P2725), 60 Beale Street (P2757), and 85 North Front Street (P2721). To request monthly parking, visit www.premiumparking.com, enter the garage code, and fill out the form.
Groove On-Demand
Groove On-Demand is an affordable, on-demand public rideshare service in Downtown, the Medical District, South City, and New Chicago. Rides are $1.25 (with discounts for seniors/students/disabled) and can be booked via an app or phone. It operates daily from 6 AM to 10 PM. Visit https://downtownmemphis.com/explore/groove-on-demand for details.
These options aim to support hospitality workers and provide accessible transportation solutions in Memphis. Whether you prefer ridesharing, vanpooling, biking, or scooter rentals, there are resources available to make your commute easier and more affordable.