NORFOLK, Va. — No one’s New Year’s resolution is to spend more time driving alone to and from work.
That’s why vanpooling from goCommute could be your ride in 2026. January is the perfect time to rethink your commute, and with vanpooling from goCommute, you can take some of the stress out of the daily grind and turn the month into “Vanuary.”
goCommute’s vanpool program partners with Commute with Enterprise to lease late-model vans or SUVs to registered groups of five to 15 people. The Vanpool Assistance Program helps cover the costs of insurance, fuel, tolls and maintenance, with passengers splitting the remaining expenses. goCo offers financial support for new and existing vanpools.
With the ConnectingVA Vanpool Program, you can commute to work in a vanpool for just $99 a month for the first four months. To qualify, new vanpools must have at least five riders in a seven-passenger vehicle or eight riders in a 12-passenger van.
After the introductory period, participating vanpools will receive a $500 monthly stipend from goCommute per vanpool.
Leases require only a 30-day cancellation notice, so there is no long-term commitment. If vanpool members leave, the Van Save program will temporarily subsidize empty seats.
Vanpool Benefits
To start a vanpool, visit gocommute.org/vanpool for a match based on where you live, where you work and your schedule. ConnectingVA is another easy way to see existing vanpool options in the region. You can search for routes and explore potential matches. Then ask co-workers who might want to change their daily commute.
Vanpooling has many benefits, including:
- Saving on commuting costs.
- Prolonging the life of your vehicle.
- Reducing traffic congestion.
- Saving time by using HOV lanes.
- Decreasing commuting stress.
Commuters are encouraged to register their vanpool with goCommute to access ridesharing benefits for both traditional and private vanpools. Registration makes participants eligible for rider referrals and designated parking opportunities. Additional commuter benefits include Ride Home Rewards and other incentives available by signing up with ConnectingVA.
Active-duty Navy, Marine, and civil service members are also eligible for extra benefits through Transit Benefit Programs, which pays up to $325 per month for vanpool and public transport services, including bus, light rail and ferry rides provided by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT).
About goCommute
goCommute, operated by HRT, is funded through the Hampton Roads Transportation Planning Organization (HRTPO). Its mission is to advocate for sustainable transportation options by connecting employers and commuters with free resources and innovative solutions through strategic marketing, targeted outreach and commuter programs. To learn more, please visit gocommute.org.
Media Contact:
Thomas Becher, APR
Manager, Communications
Cell: (757) 354-0564
tbecher@hrtransit.org
December 29, 2025