Texas recently received its first CarShare program, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving transportation options. Austin CarShare is now pre-enrolling members and will be launching Austin's first car share program this fall. Service will initially be focused on the downtown and The University of Texas areas.

Other Texas cities may want to study this option and work with Austin CarShare to create a similar program. Carsharing supports and advances bicycling as a practical transportation alternative. Participants can save money on auto expenses and get that fancy bicycle they’ve always wanted!

Carsharing is a service that provides members with 24-hour access to a fleet of cars on-demand at an hourly rate that includes gas, insurance and maintenance. Carsharing helps reposition the automobile as one transportation choice among several rather than the sole, default choice. Studies have shown that carshare programs help increase transit use, reduce emissions and lower the overall costs of transportation.

Austin CarShare will be holding a press conference next Monday, July 24, at 11 am at the Plaza at City Hall to formerly announce the new venture. Please come and show your support for carsharing in Austin and Texas!

For more information, including details on membership levels and how you can join, please visit www.austincarshare.org.