Although Travel Demand Management measures alone won't solve congestion on Loop 1604, these strategies are being used across the nation to reduce the demand for travel.  Our region has some programs already in place, such as the Alamo Area Council of Government's Commute Solutions program and VIA Metropolitan Transit's Van Pool service.  A number of area employers offer their own unique programs as well. 

To learn more about employer-based programs, the Alamo Regional Mobility Authority, in partnership with Baker, is conducting a research study to determine how major employers, schools, and other community centers surrounding Loop 1604 have implemented programs and strategies to reduce parking demands and improve employee commutes.  Through this study, Baker interns, Lacy Guaderrama and Erik Leitner, also hope to help other employers learn how they could benefit from implementing similar strategies.  

So what does a major employer, school, or community center do when they run out of parking places?  Traditionally, they would probably buy more real estate and build more parking.  But, maybe there is a better solution that can also help reduce the demand for more cars on our roads.  If you represent a major employer, school or community center and want to participate in a survey for this study, please contact Lorraine Richards, AICP, with Baker at (210) 408-4705 or by e-mail.  

Lacy and Erik will review these surveys, conduct further research, and present the results in May by sharing their ideas on ways existing programs might be improved or how more organizations surrounding Loop 1604 can get involved.