Commuter Programs

OmniRide has established partnerships with other regional transportation organizations. Our collective goal is to improve the regional quality of life through reduced pollution and congestion. As an added benefit, this makes OmniRide passengers eligible to participate in several special commuter programs.

Metrochek and SmartBenefits^®

Metrochek is a tax free or pre-tax benefit, of up to $120 per month that companies and Federal agencies can provide to their employees. Metrochek vouchers can be redeemed and the value applied to SmarTrip cards. Some vanpool operators registered with Omni Match also accept them toward fares.

Metrocheks can be converted to SmarTrip value at:

• The PRTC Transit Center at 14700 Potomac Mills Road, Woodbridge, 6am - 8 pm M - F
• Metrorail stations using a Passes/Farecard machine

Metrochecks are being discontinued in favor of SmartBenefits (see below).  March 31, 2009,is the last day they can be redeemed towards PRTC bus fares.

SmartBenefits is the electronic version of the monthly transit benefit, which can be downloaded to SmarTrip cards and is also accepted for vanpool fares. The benefit can be downloaded and converted to SmarTrip card value using a Passes/Farecard machine at Metrorail stations.

The Metrochek and SmartBenefits programs are administered through the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro system). For more information visit the Metrochek page on their website at www.MetroOpensDoors.com or call Metro at (202) 962-1326.

Guaranteed Ride Home

The Guaranteed Ride Home (GRH) program provides commuters who regularly take transit, vanpool carpool bike or walk to work with a reliable ride home when one of life's unexpected emergencies arise. Registered commuters will be able to use GRH for unexpected personal emergencies and unscheduled overtime up to four times per year. The ride home by cab, rental car bus or train is FREE.

This program is administered through Commuter Connections, a regional network of transportation organizations. For details or to register call (800) 745-7433 or visit www.CommuterConnections.org.

Regional Transfer Program

Transferring from an OmniRide bus to other regional buses is easy - and it's FREE! You can transfer - for FREE - between OmniRide and Metro buses. Ride an OmniRide bus then transfer for FREE to any regional bus, such as Metrobus or Fairfax Connector, to get you closer to your destination. If paying cash, just ask the bus operator for a transfer when you board the bus. If using a SmarTrip card, the electronic farebox will calculate and automatically deduct the correct fare from your card.

More information on the Regional Transfer Program is available here...

Employer Services

Employer Services is a program that provides FREE consultations and assists to employers seeking to implement a company transportation program that offers alternatives to driving alone. Companies can realize "bottom line" benefits while improving employee morale and loyalty. This service is available to any employer within PRTC's service area. Call OmniRide's Employer Services Specialist at (703) 583-7782 for program details.