College campuses are increasingly embracing innovative transportation solutions, and car sharing programs are becoming a popular option. For students, faculty, and staff who may not own a vehicle or want a more flexible and sustainable transportation choice, car sharing programs offer a convenient alternative. Swarthmore College has recently partnered with Zipcar, Inc., a leading car sharing network, to bring this beneficial service to their campus community.
The car sharing program at Swarthmore College, powered by Zipcar, provides access to vehicles 24/7. Initially, two cars are available: a Ford Focus and a hybrid Ford C-MAX. These Zipcars are conveniently located in designated parking spots within the Benjamin West Parking Lot on campus, ensuring easy pick-up and return for users. This on-demand availability makes it simple for college members to reserve and access a car whenever they need it.
Membership in the Swarthmore College Zipcar program is accessible to students, faculty, and staff aged 18 and older, as well as local community members aged 21 and over. For the first year, Swarthmore College members can join for a reduced fee of $25, with hourly rates starting at $7.50 and daily rates at $69. After the initial year, an annual membership fee of $35 applies. These rates are inclusive of gas, insurance coverage, and up to 180 miles of driving per day. Car reservations can be made for short trips of just an hour or longer durations spanning multiple days, offering significant flexibility. Interested individuals at Swarthmore College can easily join Zipcar through the dedicated website: www.zipcar.com/swarthmore.
Laura Cacho, Swarthmore’s Director of Sustainability, spearheaded the initiative to introduce Zipcar to the campus. She highlights the program’s alignment with the college’s sustainability goals and its practical advantages for the community. “The College is working hard at reducing its carbon footprint, but the reality is that our campus is in a suburban location and driving a car is often necessary,” Cacho states. She emphasizes that “This program will enable staff and faculty who can get to campus without driving to leave their car at home and still be able to run an errand at lunch or travel to an off-campus meeting. For students, it will provide another means to get off-campus for internships, volunteer opportunities, events, or just some fun.”
For ease of use, Zipcar offers a mobile application for smartphones, compatible with both iPhones and Android devices. This app allows members to make reservations, lock and unlock vehicles, and even sound the horn to locate their reserved car. Alternatively, reservations can also be made via phone or through Zipcar’s website, ensuring accessibility for all users.
