DC Runs on Movement: Empowering Employers to Build Stronger Commuter Benefits Programs

In the District of Columbia, the way we move and travel powers everything from commuting to work and attending and hosting social gatherings to traveling between the District’s diverse wards. Employers play a key role in shaping how employees travel to and from work each day. 

By offering commuter benefits and promoting sustainable transportation options, your organization can help reduce congestion, support employee well-being, strengthen recruitment and retention efforts, and comply with local laws, all while contributing to a more accessible workplace and connected DC. 

Whether your organization is just getting started or looking to enhance an existing program, goDCgo offers tools and resources to support you every step of the way. 

Why Commuter Benefits Matter for Employers 

Providing commuter benefits is more than checking a box; it is a strategic investment in employees and the broader community. Employers who support alternative commuting options can help: 

• Reduce employee commuting stress and lateness.  
• Improve productivity and job satisfaction.  
• Reduce turnover and lack of motivation. 
• Support sustainability and reduced emissions goals.  
• Enhance workplace competitiveness in the region.  

Programs such as pre-tax transit benefits and subsidized commuter programs also help employees save money, making them a high-impact, low-cost benefit to implement. 

Additionally, DC employers with 20 or more employees must offer some type of commuter benefits to comply with the DC Commuter Benefits Law.  

Tools and Programs Available Through goDCgo 

goDCgo offers a variety of employer-focused resources designed to simplify commuter benefits implementation and employee engagement. 

1. Customized Support for Commuter Programs: You can work with goDCgo’s Employer Services team to distribute an employee survey to gauge interest in commute programs at your organization, help you get leadership approval, and provide guidance and resources on implementing the program.   

Common commuter benefit programs we can help you establish include: 

• Transit subsidies  
• Carpool programs and ride matching 
• Capital Bikeshare memberships and/or scooter credits 
• Biking or walking benefits 

2. DC Commuter Benefits Law Compliance: We can walk you through the law, suggest compliance options that work for your organization, and help you implement them. Schedule a meeting with us today to get started.  
3. Employer Vendor Contact List: We offer a comprehensive guide for employers looking for vendors for commuter benefits programs and sustainable commuting amenities. 
4. Brochure Ordering: Request free brochures and materials to support employee outreach and education. 
5. Custom Get-Around-Guides: Created specifically for your organization, this guide showcases transportation options around your office and how to use them. Email us to request your organization’s Get-Around-Guide. 
6. Capital Bikeshare Corporate Program: This program offers  support for providing discounted Capital Bikeshare memberships to employees, plus a free CaBi 101 session from goDCgo to help staff learn how to use the system confidently. Employers can also test out the program before becoming a corporate member with goDCgo’s Try Cabi promotion.  

Encouraging Smarter Commuting in the Workplace 

Employers play a critical role in education and engagement. Even simple, consistent communication can significantly increase commuter benefits participation. Consider the following: 

• Quarterly commuter benefit and guaranteed ride home reminders via intranet and email.
• New hire commuter benefit training/education. 
• Memo/flyer about available commuter benefits in elevators and lunchrooms or on digital screens.  
• Offer incentives for employees who commute sustainably.  

Employees are more likely to use benefits when they clearly understand what is available and how to access them. 

Take the Next Step 

Creating a commuter benefits program does not have to be difficult, and you do not have to do it alone. goDCgo offers step-by-step support, educational materials, and outreach tools to help employers launch or enhance their programs. 

By offering commuter benefits, you are investing in your workforce and in a more connected District. 

If you’re interested and not sure where to begin, schedule a meeting with our Employer Services team to discuss your organization’s needs! For more information on our Employer Services, visit our Employer page.