By SDCN Staff
San Diego, CA–San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) celebrated 117 local employers Friday morning for their outstanding contributions to encouraging the use of sustainable transportation options in the workplace.
The Diamond Award recipients were honored at a reception at the San Diego Central Library.
SANDAG says those employers embrace methods to reduce traffic congestion and gas emissions, and continue to promote sustainable transportation options in place of driving alone, including carpooling, vanpooling, biking, walking, riding transit, teleworking, and working compressed workweek schedules. Some organizations also provide incentives, subsidies, or pre-tax deductions to support their employees’ participation in eligible programs.
“Today we celebrate leaders of change who have gone above and beyond to ensure their employees can take advantage of real transportation options,” said SANDAG Chair and Encinitas Mayor Catherine Blakespear. “These employers are truly walking the talk and together we are making a big impact in combating congestion and emissions for the San Diego region.”
Through its Employer Program, SANDAG has hosted Diamond Awards for the past 19 years.
The Employer Program is based on a points system, where employers can earn points throughout the fiscal year that correlate to four tiers of Diamonds Awards recognition: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
Platinum is the highest tier of the awards, accomplished by employers who earn points for the policies and infrastructure they have that encourage sustainable commute options. Examples of onsite amenities to support all commuters include bike lockers, showers, EV infrastructure, bulk transit passes, reserved parking for carpools and vanpools, coveted parking spots for employees who rideshare, and flexible work arrangements.
SANDAG invites employers across the region to join and take advantage of the complimentary employer services to be eligible for a SANDAG Diamond Award.
For more information, visit SANDAG.org/DiamondAwards.
