The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) and Commute Seattle recently hosted the first annual Seattle CTR Champion Awards ceremony. SDOT Director Scott Kubly, Seattle’s Director of Policy and Innovation Robert Feldstein and Downtown Seattle Association President Jon Scholes were in attendance to congratulate Seattle employers who have made significant contributions to the Commute Trip Reduction (CTR) program.

The city recognized 50 worksites out of 250 citywide for their programs’ accomplishments. Employers were recognized for significant reductions in drive-alone commuting, transportation benefits offered to employees and for active engagement in the CTR program. Four employers received the award’s highest recognition of the platinum level: Seattle Children’s Hospital, Big Fish Games, the University of Washington and KPFF Consulting Engineers.

Seattle’s CTR program is a partnership connecting large employers to commute options resources and tools that keep businesses and the economy thriving. For more than 20 years Seattle’s CTR program has yielded strong results with 64 percent of commuters from participating businesses now using transit, walking, carpooling, bicycling or telecommuting. These travel choices reduce air pollution, traffic congestion and energy consumption, which help keep Seattle a great place to live and work.

“Seattle’s program is committed to strengthening our partnership with employers by delivering innovative programming that increases the use of alternatives to single car driving and provides access to excellent transportation services,” said SDOT Director Scott Kubly.

Employers who provide more effective transportation programs are more competitive in attracting top talent, improve employee satisfaction and increase employee retention. This annual event provides an opportunity to highlight outstanding contributions towards a strong business environment and building a robust transportation system. To learn more about these awards and the city’s Commute Trip Reduction program, please visit: http://www.seattle.gov/waytogo/ctr.htm.