A new program starting at Brock University is aimed at getting more people onto campus using fewer vehicles.

Brock’s Parking Services has joined Niagara Ride Share, a local carpooling pilot project operated by the Niagara Prosperity Network and the Niagara Region.

Niagara Ride Share is a web-based ride matching service available to all residents, businesses, organizations and institutions in Niagara at no cost. It allows commuters to enter their starting point and destination, the days and times they want to share rides, and then see if anyone is available to carpool.

The region-wide, two-year pilot project is being funded by the Niagara Prosperity Initiative, Bridges Community Health Centre and the Town of Fort Erie.

Wendy Laslo, Director of Parking, Visitor and Conference Services, said Brock is getting on board because it offers people commuting to the University more options.

“It’s mainly to reduce the number of cars on campus and to offer people options,” she said. “There are people who live in areas in Niagara where public transit isn’t really an option.”

Brock’s involvement is targeted at both employees and students of Brock.

Parking Services is currently working on a master plan and Laslo said part of that “is definitely going to speak to sustainability,” with car sharing and electric vehicle needs incorporated into it.

For more information or to enroll, visit www.niagararideshare.ca.