The 2008 Governor's Commuter Challenge is a pilot program for the 8,500 state employees who work in the Capitol Mall area. The Governor's goal for this Challenge is to reduce carbon by 500,000 pounds. Responding to rising gas prices and global warming, the Challenge encourages carpooling, biking, walking, vanpooling and using public transit for summer commuting.

A survey of Capitol Mall employees shows that thousands spend more than $2,000 a year on fuel and parking associated with driving alone to work. Almost half who drive alone are interested in saving money and reducing emissions by using some other method of commuting at least one day a week.

The Challenge will run through the summer, ending just before Labor Day. The Governor will release the results in mid-September. Agencies that meet the Governor's goal of "emissions saved" will be recognized.