Best Workplaces for CommutersSM

Race to Excellence FAQs 

What is Best Workplaces for CommutersSM ? 

Best Workplaces for CommutersSM is a voluntary program advocating employer-provided commuter benefits. The 

program offers recognition for innovative solutions to commuting challenges faced by employers and employees. 

Established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this program publicly recognizes employers 

whose commuter benefits reach the National Standard of Excellence. 

Why do employers participate in Best Workplaces for CommutersSM ? 

Providing commuter benefits helps employers address limited or expensive parking, reduce traffic congestion,

improve employee recruiting and retention, and minimize the environmental impacts associated with drive-alone 

commuting. Participating companies earn the designation "Best Workplaces for CommutersSM" —a mark of 

excellence for environmentally and employee-friendly organizations. 

How many employers have earned the designation of Best Workplaces for CommutersSM ? 

To date, over 1500 employers representing more than 2.9 million commuters, have made the list of Best 

Workplaces for Commuters. 

What is the Race to Excellence? 

The Race to Excellence is a challenge that encourages, recognizes, and highlights dedicated professionals 

throughout the country who promote commuter benefits, transportation options and the Best Workplaces for 

Commuters designation in their workplaces and throughout their local communities. 

Why did EPA sponsor this challenge? 

The Best Workplaces for Commuters Race to Excellence was created to recognize the hard work of two groups of 

professionals – Best Workplaces for Commuters Employee Transportation Coordinators and BWC Network 

Members, both of who are actively promoting superior commuter benefits and transportation options on a national 

basis. In an effort to show appreciation for the enthusiasm and commitment of these two groups in supporting

commuter benefits, EPA launched the first annual Race to Excellence. 

Why is the Race to Excellence important, especially at this time? 

Promoting superior commuter benefits as a way to reduce vehicle miles traveled and the resulting air pollution,

greenhouse gas emissions and traffic congestion is of international importance. In addition, the resulting fuel

savings can also contribute to energy security. 

Who is eligible to participate in the Race to Excellence? 

The challenge is open to both Best Workplaces for Commuters Employee Transportation Coordinators and Best 

Workplaces for Commuters Network Members. 

What is an Employee Transportation Coordinator? 

An Employee Transportation Coordinator (ETC) typically serves as the point of contact between their company’s 

management and employees to implement, promote and administer a commuter benefits package.

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What is a BWC Network Member?

BWC Network members include a broad-based group of organizations from around the country interested in 

collaborating with Best Workplaces for Commuters and committed to transforming the marketplace for commuter 

benefits. 

What period does the Race to Excellence challenge cover? 

The challenge coveres specific activities accomplished during the period of August 1, 2005 to June 1, 2006.

What types of activities are required? 

Activities range from displaying the Best Workplaces for Commuters logo in job announcements to recruiting

other employers or worksites to qualify for the Best Workplaces for Commuters list. 

What will the winners receive? 

Winners receive an appreciation package based on their award level, including a certificate of appreciation, a 

letter of appreciation sent to their manager congratulating the winner for their role in alleviating traffic congestion 

and improving air quality and quality of life. In addition, a “Best Of” award will be given to an ETC from a university, 

a FORTUNE 500 company, and a District that have earned the Best Workplaces for Commuters designation. 

Where will the awards be presented? 

A Recognition Ceremony will be held at the Association for Commuter Transportation (ACT) International 

conference in Boston, MA.