GET REWARDED FOR SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION
You can join CAP for free at cap.unc.edu.
UNC is focused on excellence, and that includes environmental friendliness.
The University’s Three Zeros Environmental Initiative strives for water neutrality, zero waste and greenhouse gas neutrality. The initiative promotes sustainable practices across the campus community and seeks to reduce the University’s environmental impact. For many students and young professionals in Chapel Hill, that can start with sustainable transportation.
What is sustainable transportation?
Sustainable transportation is key to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The more sustainable the transportation, the cleaner the air.
Biking, carpooling, vanpooling, taking a bus and walking all bring people together and build community while helping Tar Heels to save money, reduce stress and exercise more. Those who commute sustainably avoid the cost of on-campus parking and reduce their carbon footprint.
What is the Commuter Alternative Program?
The Commuter Alternative Program (CAP) is a free rewards program for anyone who commutes to campus and doesn’t drive alone. Taking advantage of UNC’s many sustainable transportation options means members are eligible to win free rewards and receive discounts at local businesses through CAP.
This program incentivizes environmentally friendly transportation choices. CAP benefits include local business discount cards, occasional-use parking, monthly prize drawings, free bus passes or vanpool subsidies, a free annual Zipcar membership and emergency rides home.
If you aren’t sure what the best way to get to campus is from your house or apartment, you can contact CAP staff at cap@unc.edu for free commute assistance.
Is UNC a commuter-friendly campus?
UNC is already doing well in regards to sustainable transportation and offers many options for commuting sustainably. The University is a designated silver-level Bicycle Friendly University by the League of American Bicyclists and is recognized nationally as one of the Best Workplaces for Commuters.
Sustainable transportation is a popular choice at UNC as, according to the 2017 UNC Commuter Survey, 75 percent of student commuters opt for a sustainable and economical commuting choice.
How do I get started?
For all transportation options at UNC, visit move.unc.edu. Those who wish to start carpooling can ride-match using their Onyens. When on campus, Tar Heels can try Tar Heel Bikes, which is free for an hour each day, or check out UNC’s bike amenities and share hubs.
To get around the Triangle area, use Google Maps for transit directions. The GoTriangle bus system is a strong option, and Chapel Hill Transit is fare-free. Use the free TransLoc Rider app for bus tracking. If you’ve already bought a parking permit but want to try a more sustainable option, permits can be exchanged at the Public Safety Building for a prorated refund. Cyclists who register their bikes with UNC get 50 percent off a U-lock.
And don’t forget: CAP is free to join at cap.unc.edu.
Questions can be directed to CAP staff at cap@unc.edu for free commute assistance.
UNC’s Director of Transportation and Parking Cheryl Stout said CAP isn’t the only program at UNC that supports sustainable transportation.
"The University has a long history of supporting and providing sustainable transportation options for employees and students,” Stout said.
“While the Commuter Alternative Program (CAP) has been incredibly successful, Transportation and Parking also leads other sustainable transportation initiatives, such as the Tar Heel Bikes bike share program, LED lighting upgrades in parking decks, and electric vehicle charging stations. The department continues to look for ways to provide the best and most sustainable options for campus access."
