Transportation incentive program changes Published Feb. 1, 2012 By Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Foster 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Hanscom personnel who take advantage of commuting opportunities may notice the allowance on the monthly transit benefit has been reduced. The amount of the benefit from the Transportation Incentive Program (TIP) has been lowered from $230 to $125 as of Jan. 1, 2012. The transportation incentive program reimburses qualified employees for public transportation costs and is provided for various transportation modes, including buses, commuter rail, subways and van pools. There are approximately 200 base and Boston area personnel currently enrolled in TIP. Many of them take advantage of van pool services already set up at Hanscom. "My original mindset with the van pool was that every day I took it would result in a reduction to my commuting costs," said Cari Pullen, rider and coordinator of one of the van pools at Hanscom. "So I started off taking it here and there and soon realized I really liked it. I didn't have to worry about the hassles of stop and go traffic." The four van pools that run from Nashua, N.H., directly to Hanscom are independently operated and organized through VSPI Inc. The company leases the vans to the riders for commuting from any location. Even with the reduction in benefits, commuting is still worth it for some riders. "The cost savings and less wear and tear on my car are the driving factors for me, but it's an enjoyable experience, too," Pullen said. "We have camaraderie in our van that makes it a lot more than just a means to an end." There are vacancies currently available in the vans. If interested in joining or starting a new vanpool, contact Greg Cravedi at 781-225-6150 or Susan Panacopoulos at 781-225-6143.