Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Joseph F. Marie today kicked off the third annual “Earth Day Commuter Challenge,” a statewide initiative that encourages commuters to take greener forms of commuting between now and Earth Day.  The annual event encourages all forms of green commuting including carpooling, vanpooling, telecommuting, biking, walking and taking the bus or train, and is projected to achieve record results with an estimated 10,000 participants eliminating more than 140,000 vehicle trips. This level of participation would result in 5,000,000 fewer miles of driving and the elimination of 2,000 tons of emissions.

“I continue to be proud of the tremendous accomplishments achieved each year by Connecticut commuters and their employers during the commuter challenge,” said Commissioner Marie. “This event also exemplifies the type of success that can be achieved through creative public-private partnerships that benefit all Connecticut residents with reduced traffic and cleaner air.”

Commuters who participate in the event are eligible to earn rewards from local and national sponsors including over a dozen grand prizes of $100 in groceries from Peapod by Stop & Shop.  “Peapod is proud to once again support this exciting event and reward Connecticut families when they drive less,” said Peapod Marketing Director Peg Merzbacher. “And providing rewards adds to the excitement by helping working families during these difficult times.”

Connecticut commuters can sign up for free and begin earning rewards right away.  Participating employers will also have the results from their employees tallied on a special web site, with the winning employers receiving awards and recognition at the conclusion of the event.  To learn more about the event or to sign up for free visit www.earthdaycommuterchallenge.com