The 2010 SmartCommute Challenge is about to crank up. That means Triangle commuters will get the chance to win cool stuff in exchange for simply promising to experiment with a new way of getting to work.
This is a three-county, month-long campaign for people who commute to jobs or college in the Triangle. To reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality, commuters are encouraged to cut back on driving solo. Alternatives include taking the bus, joining a carpool or vanpool, walking or biking, or "teleworking" from home.
It's pretty easy. Between April 15 (Thursday) and May 15, you go to the website and click "Take the Challenge." You qualify for lots of prizes simply by pledging to try a different commuting mode.
The kickoff event is 9 a.m. Thursday at Research Triangle Park Headquarters, 12 Davis Drive in RTP. Speakers include Gene Conti, the state transportation secretary, and Sheila Holman, deputy director of the state Division of Air Quality.
Bruce Siceloff reports on traffic and transportation. A News & Observer reporter and editor since 1976, he took over the 
