ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- For some, it is about the money saved, for others the benefits lie in spending time with others, still others enjoy the fact they can relax and enjoy their ride to and from work.
For every individual who chooses to join a van pool, there is a reason why they chose to do so. And, often, more than one reason may speak to the participants.
Ray Lindsey began riding in a van pool because it would save wear and tear on his personal vehicle. He chose a group he gets along well with and said he also appreciates the money it saves him.
"Being in a van pool reduces the wear and tear on your body as well as your car," he said, emphasizing one of the biggest bonuses for him -- a reduction in driving stress.
His van pool group each take turns driving during the trip, with the two who have the longest drive each taking part of the last leg. The trip each day takes the van from Huntsville to Leeds then on to the depot and back again.
Michael Maddox said the key to having a good van pool was ensuring each member is committed. In order for things to go smoothly, everyone must be on time and communicate with each other when things come up that will keep them from work.
"We text each other to let everyone know what is going on," he said.
For Maddox, the trip each day takes 30 minutes more -- 15 in the morning and 15 in the afternoon -- but, the time spent is offset by monetary savings and the camaraderie of the group.
"I am probably paying about a third of what it would cost to put gas in my car," said Maddox, who said being able to talk to friends during the trip breaks up the monotony of the drive each day.
To find out more about van pools, call Jeannette Ingram at Ext. 6101.
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