Vanpools
CU Boulder Vanpool Programs
CU Transportation supports vanpooling to campus by helping form vans and by providing both monetary subsidies and free parking to make it more affordable and accessible to all staff.
What is a vanpool?
- A vanpool is a group of 5-7 people with similar commute routes and work schedules, who share a vanÌýprovided by either (Denver Metro area) or (Northern Front Range)
- A driver is not provided. Driving responsibilities are shared by at least two or more vanpool members.
- Meet-up location(s), the route and driving responsibilities are flexible and up to the van membersÌýto agree on.
- Only CU Boulder employees, affiliates, or contractors can join a CU vanpool.
- Each van needs to have a vanpool coordinator.
- The vanpool coordinator is responsible for setting the route and schedule and a monthly rider report and coordinating vehicle maintenance with the vanpool provider.
What are the benefits? Free parking and more.
- One monthly fee covers all costs, including gas, maintenance, and insurance.
- Vanpools get a free parking permit for one lot.
What does it cost?
The amount you pay depends on which program you are in and your employment type.
- CU Vanpool Program/ (Denver Metro area)
- $20 for Front-line Service Employees (eligibility information can be foundÌýon Human Resource’s website).
- $50 per month for most staff.
- Monthly fees are deducted via payroll deduction for CU Staff, or online for temporary employees.
- (Northern Front Range) - Monthly fee is dependent on commute distance from origin to destination. Contact VanGo for pricing. Let them know you are from CU Boulder to get the reduced rate.
If you have questions, or are ready to get started:
For more detailed questions, call Clark Rider at 303-735-7874 or email buffscommute@colorado.edu
If you know for sure that you want to join a van, you can get a head start on the process by filling out this form:
Ìý
Rules for Being a Vanpool Driver
- You must Pass CU Boulder’s Defensive Driver Training Course.
- Apply to be a driver with Commute with Enterprise and get approved.
- Complete and sign the CU Boulder Vanpool Authorization form (via DocuSign).
Driver Requirements
- The vanpool provider (Commute with Enterprise) will determine eligibility.
- Be at least 25 years old, have a valid driver’s license, no major driving convictions in the past five years and no more than two moving violations in the past three years.
- Only approved drivers who have completed all the steps above can drive a van.
Insurance and Liability
- If you drive without approval, you are responsible for any damage or accidents.
- CU Boulder’s insurance does not cover unauthorized drivers.
Why should I vanpool?
Compared to driving, vanpoolers save hundreds of dollars a year in gas, maintenance, and parking fees.
- You get the van, or a ride in one. It's like having your own vehicle, but no wear and tear
- Gas, insurance, roadside assistance and maintenance are paid for
- Free parking for the van in select CU lots
- Guaranteed Ride Home - Emergency while at work? You can take a free cab ride home
18Ìývans (as of 01/29/2025)
95 vanpoolers
77 carsÌýavoided*
2310+ drive miles/day avoided*
*Assuming that all riders would drive, and avg distance is 30 miles/day roundtripÌý