UW-Whitewater ride-sharing takes new turn

March 14, 2011

For students who don’t have a reliable vehicle, want to reduce their carbon footprint or just need some extra company on the road, Zimride may be the perfect solution.

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater has partnered with Zimride, a national electronic ride-sharing program, to offer the campus community an alternative, safe and fun transportation system.

UW-Whitewater joins about 60 other schools across the nation in adopting Zimride. The program combines the old concept of carpooling with the power of the Internet. Zimride allows users to create a social profile, including interests, radio preferences, smoking habits and ride destinations.

The site is designed for both those who need rides and those looking to fill empty seats in their car. There’s also a choice between a one-time trip or a commuting schedule.

“It’s perfect for commuting faculty members and students who have regular work and class schedules,” said Wes Enterline, coordinator of UW-Whitewater Zimride. “It’s also ideal for students living in the residence halls who typically go back home on Fridays and come back to campus on Sundays.”

The site includes adjustable privacy settings, allowing users to control who sees a their e-mail address or phone number. Past rides are tracked, as well as the amount of carbon dioxide emissions saved by carpooling.

Users can leave feedback rating their ride-sharing experience and make comments. From Zimride users’ profiles, more information can be gained via the social network Facebook, which has teamed up with Zimride.

“Facebook allows for more trust,” said Enterline. “You get to see how many friends that person has, and are able to get a better idea of how the ride will go.”

“Zimriding can expand your social network,” said senior Chad Neerhof, a member of the student marketing committee for UW-Whitewater Zimride. “You don’t have to personally know someone beforehand just to get a ride.”

Users giving rides can either ask for a certain amount of money, such as $3 for a ride from Whitewater to Milwaukee, or ask to negotiate price later.

“Zimride can help put extra cash back in the pockets of students,” said Enterline.

“It’s really easy to use the site and carpooling allows students to share the responsibilities of driving,” said Neerhof. “Plus, this is something that could help open up spots in campus parking lots.”

To join, go to zimride.uww.edu and log in with your UW-Whitewater user name and password.