City CarShare

A new car-sharing program was launched last November in San Francisco. Joining similar programs in Portland and Seattle,

City CarShare began with 30 members, a handful of vehicles, and 12 parking spaces set aside at four city-owned parking garages. Members pay a one-time refundable fee of $300 to join, a $10 monthly administrative fee, and usage fees of $2 per hour and 45¢ per mile driven. While Car Sharing Portland, established in March 1998, is operated as a for-profit business, City CarShare in San Francisco is a nonprofit organization. The organization has benefited from a $742,000 federal grant and $200,000 in private foundation support. Co-director Elizabeth Sullivan hopes that in five years they will have 100 cars, including some operating on alternative fuels. For information, call 415/995-8588 or visit their Web site:

www.sfcarshare.org.