If a city employee plays it smart, they can meet the governor and receive a prestigious award.

Last week, city of Bothell employee Sabrina Combs received the Governor’s Commute Smart Award for her work as Bothell’s Employee Transportation Coordinator (ETC). Gov. Chris Gregoire presented the award at a ceremony in the governor’s mansion in Olympia.

Combs has been promoting alternative transportation by reaching out to city employees through employee newsletters, the city’s intranet, new hire information, brochures and more. Her efforts have lead to an increase in walking, carpooling, vanpooling and compressed work weeks compared to 2007.

The Commute Smart Awards program began in 1998 to recognize employers and individuals for their work in reducing drive-alone rates in Washington state. ETCs specifically help their fellow employees find commute options that work best for them. Reducing the number of employee commutes in turn reduces traffic on busy roads and cuts harmful emissions.

“I’m proud of what our city employees have already achieved in reducing their commutes and it’s exciting to be part of making that happen,” said Combs. “We can always do more, however, so I’ll still be looking for ways to get the word out and encourage ways of getting to work other than driving alone.”

The city of Bothell currently offers commuter bonus programs, a guaranteed ride-home program, shower facilities for employees who bike or walk to work and, in some cases, flexible schedules and telecommuting options.

Combs was also honored for her achievement at the Bothell City Council meeting April 20.

“Bothell is honored to be one of only a few municipalities in the state recognized for reducing employee commutes,” said Mayor Mark Lamb. “Thanks to Sabrina’s tireless efforts, our city employees are using transportation options that are healthier and cleaner for the environment and will help unclog our roads.”