2001/09/11 City Council Resolution (3)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 respiratory ailments; and
j.
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 ten 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 monthly cost of $245.70 —not including bridge tolls or parking; and
WHEREAS, there are simple things we can do to help the environment: carpooling, vanpooling, taking
public transit, biking, walking, telecommuting, or even combining several short trips while the engine is warm; and
WHEREAS, this year, commuters who pledge not to drive alone at least once during Rideshare Week will be
eligible to win a Trip for Two to Paris as well as other great prizes (see Destination Paris Web site
www.paris.rides.org).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Rohnert Park does hereby
r . recognize and support
October 1 -5 as California Rideshare Week
and encourages the residents of our community to share rides as often as possible.
DULY AND REGULA is l da. of Se tember 2001.
CITY OF ROHNER ARK
ME; rg M—
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