Sustainability Spotlight: Ada County
This month, City Go is proud to spotlight Ada County as a leader in sustainable transportation.
Ada County Government is the local countywide governmental agency that oversees many public services. From Court Services, Local Development, Public Safety, Paramedics, Solid Waste Management, Parks and Waterways, and more, the County employs over 2,000 people. As a local leader in sustainability initiatives, the County is more resource-efficient and serves the community through improved stewardship.
Ada County Government is committed to advancing sustainability. In 2003, the Green Building Resolution paved the way for more sustainable design and energy efficiency in all new buildings, addressing environmental costs in the built and natural environments. Additionally, in 2019, the Clean Energy Resolution was passed, mandating that County facilities use 100% clean energy by 2045. Along with these resolutions, the annual strategic plan for Sustainable Operations and Resource Conservation (SORC) lays the foundation for continued sustainable evolution at Ada County.
Ada County is committed to encouraging active transportation, such as biking and walking, in Boise’s downtown core and promoting sustainable transportation choices throughout the Treasure Valley.
What does “sustainable transportation” mean to your business?
Ada County's Sustainable Transportation Program is a key initiative that provides access to reliable, convenient transportation for all County employees. Sustainable transportation has a low impact on the environment, encourages transit-oriented development, green vehicles, car sharing, fuel-efficient transport systems, and non-motorized modes of transportation such as walking and biking. A sustainable transportation system is essential as it encourages a more liveable community and better livelihood for all.
What inspires and drives your organization’s work on sustainable transportation?
Ada County has a history of striving for environmental resourcefulness and has been a leader in creating a clean community. Ada County has partnered with City Go, Clean Cities Coalition, Idaho Walk Bike Alliance, ACHD Commuteride, and many more agencies to build a strong sense of community.
The County continues to lessen the overall contribution of greenhouse gas emissions and traffic congestion by providing an array of transportation benefits that include vanpool, carpool, and bus transit for County employees. The County also supports infrastructure that facilitates active transportation and programs that encourage fuel efficiency and trip reduction.
“We have an extensive network of over 2,000 employees [...] we’re proud to offer an array of more sustainable ways to get around, and we encourage our employees to do so.”
Ada County sponsored George’s Cycles, Safe Routes to Schools, and City Go as part of May in Motion and Bike There Day in May 2021.
In what ways does your organization promote sustainable transportation?
We have an extensive network of over 2,000 employees that have the option of riding to work for free by either bus or vanpool. We're proud to offer an array of more sustainable ways to get around, and we encourage our employees to do so.
We also recognize that not all employees can participate. Still, we believe that the more people who can and do participate, the greater the benefits to our communities in reduced stress, traffic, emissions, and parking pressures.
Additionally, we participate in May in Motion every year, rallying up our team and getting people excited about ditching their cars. Our commitment to incentivizing public transportation and our Clean Energy Resolution helps us strive toward our broader sustainability goals.
What transportation modes or initiatives are most exciting for your organization?
Ada County is excited to see the electrification and expansion of the Valley Regional Transit System. With county facilities located in all six cities in Ada County, providing sustainable transportation options to our employees across the Valley is essential.
We are also interested in seeing new routes and services that will better serve our growing community, particularly areas outside Boise city limits.
Why is your business’s participation in City Go important?
Through our partnership with City Go, we have facilitated and provided 100% cost-free sustainable transportation options for all employees. Additionally, City Go streamlines outreach by providing materials about transportation options on and around our campuses, making it easier for employees to understand how to use various transportation options. Together, we have access to transportation experts, surveys, GHG emissions data, and incentives that help us coordinate parking and transportation.
Is there anything else you'd like to share with fellow City Go members?
Ada County is currently expanding our Green Fleet Policy and creating a comprehensive Sustainable Fleet Management program. These developments will assist us in owning and operating the most efficient fleet that we can. In addition, we hope to encourage hybrid vehicles, EV Infrastructure and implement an environmentally preferable purchasing (EPP) policy for all fleet vehicles.
“Through our partnership with City Go, we have facilitated and provided 100% cost-free sustainable transportation options for all employees.”
About Sustainability Spotlights
The benefits of a City Go membership go beyond access to discounted passes and services.
Members get expert advice, planning, and program development aimed at promoting sustainable transportation. Members help shape the future of growth management and transportation infrastructure in Boise and the Treasure Valley through relevant programming, outreach, and advocacy.
Each month, we feature a different member organization and highlight their contributions to creating a more connected community through supporting sustainable transportation.
Not a member? Learn more about the benefits of membership or contact us today!