September 15, 2009 — Sept. 21-25 is "Try Transit Week," sponsored by the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation. Organizers encourage commuters to avoid driving solo and try out transit options such as bus, rail, carpools, vanpools and telework.

Using transit can save time and money – up to $9,000 a year in fuel and car expenses for the average family, on top of time lost sitting in traffic.

A local kickoff event for Try Transit Week, featuring prizes, food and information on transportation options in the greater Charlottesville region, will be held Monday from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Downtown Transit Station. Staff from U.Va's Parking and Transportation department will be on hand, along with representatives from the Charlottesville Transit Service, the Alliance for Community Choice in Transportation, JAUNT and RideShare.