Members of Southern Oregon University community are invited to join the Oregon Drive Less Challenge, an initiative aimed at encouraging the use of alternative transportation modes.

The challenge began Oct. 1 and continues through Oct. 15, with both weekly prizes and grand prizes that include three $500 cash cards and a $1,000 gift card for a Bike Friday folding bicycle. Those who wish to take part in the challenge can sign up at DriveLessConnect.com.

In order to be eligible, alternate methods of transportation (such as biking, riding the bus, carpooling and telework) must be used between the Oct. 1 and 15.
Log the trips taken on DriveLessConnect.com to be eligible for prizes.

Many alternate travel options are available for the SOU community.

Those who live and commute from elsewhere in the Rogue Valley can purchase $15 student bus passes that are valid for the entire term,  rather than regular, month-long passes for $56. The student passes are accepted the week before each term and continue until the first week of the next term.

To purchase a full-term bus pass, students may download the TouchPass Transit app on their mobile devices and sign up by using their SOU email addresses. They must then go to Enrollment Services in Britt Hall and ask to apply for a student bus pass. There is a one-time subscription fee of $15, and the passes are $15 per term.

Once signed up, pass-holders may download the One Bus Away app on their mobile devices to get live departure and arrival times.

Ashland is also a bicycle-friendly town for those who live close to campus, and it is possible to rent a bike for $50 from the Student Recreation Center. Included in the bike rental fee is a bike lock, helmet and maintenance. All rented bikes must be returned at the end of the term.

If there are any questions about the Oregon Drive Less Challenge or how to use alternate methods of transportation, email ECOS, the Sustainability Resource Center at ecos@sou.edu.

Story by Bryn Mosier, SOU Marketing and Communications Intern