2002/09/24 City Council Resolution (3)To]
L7
213
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
Endorsing'
OCTOBER 7 -11, 2002
CALIFORNIA RIDESHARE WEEK
WHEREAS, automobiles are the largest source of air pollution in the Bay Area,
producing over 6 million pounds of vehicle emissions every day. Automobiles pollute
water too. Run -off from highways and roads can seep into our water systems and soil,
impacting agricultural production and the environment. Pollution is damaging to our
health and is especially harmful for children, the elderly, and those with respirator
ailments; and
WHEREAS, commuting to work by driving alone generates a substantial amount of
pollution. Short - distance trips (3 -5 miles) emits the most pollutants in the first 20 minutes
of driving. A cold engine releases more pollution than a warm engine because it takes
several minutes for the catalytic converter to warm up and work efficiently. The pollution
generated in a short 3 -mile trip is equivalent to the pollution generated driving a car for tei"
miles at 40 -50 mph; and
WHEREAS, there are hidden costs in driving alone to work every day. According to the
American Automobile Association, it costs an average of 39 cents per mile (includes gas,
oil, tires, depreciation, maintenance). For a 30 -mile round -trip commute, this would be a F
monthly cost of $245.70 —not including bridge tolls or parking; and