CAMBRIDGE, MA - The University at Buffalo (UB) in New York, Boise State University in Idaho, and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) all recently launched new partnerships with Zipcar Inc., providing the campuses with access to the company's car-sharing services, available 24/7 to students, faculty, and staff members, ages 18 and older, according to news releases issued by Zipcar.

The annual membership fee for anyone affiliated with the three universities is $35, and univeristy applicants receive $35 worth of free driving credit that applies towards their first month of driving. Free annual memberships will be offered to UNCG Departments.

"After a very thorough analysis, we are excited to include a car-sharing service in our alternative transportation program, UB Carfree, that meets all the needs of our campus community," said Maria Wallace, director of Parking & Transportation Services at the University at Buffalo. "In addition, Zipcar supports UB's commitment to reducing or offsetting our greenhouse gas emissions. This new offering will help us ease congestion and ultimately reduce the university's carbon footprint."  

"Traditionally, members of the Boise State community have been limited in where they are able to travel if they choose not to bring a personal car to campus," said Casey Jones, director of transportation and parking at Boise State. "We are excited to offer a car-sharing service that allows members of our community to run errands, attend meetings or get away for the weekend on a pay-as-you-go basis that is easy and convenient."

"The parking and transportation culture at UNCG is changing. We have been working hard to expand our Campus Access Management programs to bring sustainable transportation options to the community," said Scott Milman, director of Auxiliary Services at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro. "Zipcar provides a new level of freedom to our students, staff, and faculty, allowing access to cars as they need them, without the hassles of ownership."

Cars will be placed at high-demand locations on the campuses.