Many options available for Hanscom commuters Published March 21, 2012 By Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Foster 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Most people have a preferred method of commuting to work, but some Hanscom workers have more than one choice to get to and from the base each day. Robert Spelfogel, Commuter manager, explains a few of the options available to Hanscom personnel. "The Transportation Incentive Program is a program for military members and DoD federal workers that provides financial incentives to encourage commuting by public transportation and qualified van pools," Spelfogel said. "Program participants may receive up to $125 per month in transportation vouchers." Public transportation costs such as bus, train, subway and van pool fees qualify for this program. Military personnel who are on temporary assignment and take public transportation to Boston area colleges can also access this program. The vouchers are distributed on a quarterly basis. "Another available option is the Nashua Hanscom van pool shuttle which operates between Nashua and the base, Monday through Friday," Spelfogel said. "The van pool departs Nashua early morning and riders are dropped off and picked up at a location convenient to their work site." There are currently four VPSI Inc. vans operating between the Exit 5 Park and Ride in Nashua, N.H., and Hanscom. "Another terrific option is bicycling," Spelfogel said. "Whether you ride skinny tires or fat tires, you're welcomed on base. Just remember to wear your helmet. We want to make Hanscom a bike friendly place." Flextime or a compressed work schedule is an option many Hanscom employees may also enjoy. "Re-scheduling your work time to work nine hour days and get one day off every other week, with the ninth day being an eight hour work day, is a good way to reduce your commute time," Spelfogel said. "Talk to your supervisor about the details of this program." Two more available options include a telework program and MassRIDES. "The Hanscom Telework Program is any arrangement in which an employee performs official duties at an alternative worksite, such as their home," Spelfogel said. MassRIDES is a state wide program sponsored by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Transportation. "They provide comprehensive travel information and assistance, such as matching travelers to carpooling, van pooling, emergency rides home and other transit options," Spelfogel said. More information on MassRIDES is available on their website www.commute.com, or by calling 1-888-426-6688. For further information about commuting options, contact Spelfogel at 781-225-6145.