Where
Seneca College
Mode of Transport
Shuttle, Carpooling
Type of intervention
Commuter assessment, Outreaches
The Smart Commute program helped students and staff travel to and from campus, as well as between its eight campuses throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
Comprehensive commute assessment
To better understand travel habits, evaluate use of existing infrastructure and programs, and identify key incentives for encouraging sustainable travel modes, we administered a travel survey and site assessment. The travel survey and site assessment helped determine which programming would have the most impact.
Connecting and relocating campuses
We also developed a transportation strategy to assist in the relocation and merging of Seneca’s Markham campus to their Newnham campus as part of their Seneca2020 vision. Personalized travel plans were provided to students and staff at the Markham campus ahead of the relocation for a smooth transition.
Mitigating parking demand
The Smart Commute program at Seneca College included a priority carpool parking program. The process included gauging interest in carpooling among students and staff, creating an application process, as well as collecting feedback on the program.
In-person events were hosted at Seneca’s Newnham campus to help students and staff connect with potential carpool partners and learn more about carpooling best practices.
Our team has also attended orientation events to help new students learn about sustainable ways to commute to campus and provide personalized commuter support.
Overall, the Smart Commute program at Seneca College has resulted in a 4% reduction of single occupant vehicle usage among students. Seventy-eight percent of travel survey respondents said their commute satisfaction directly affected their overall school satisfaction, demonstrating the importance of the Smart Commute program.
