It's no secret that public transport is not a popular mode of transport in Vilnius. This is confirmed by the fact that the highest percentage of people in Lithuania use cars and we are the leader in this aspect among other European countries. The municipality has taken other ways to popularise public transport: it offers its employees a free annual pass. In exchange for a parking space.
This is not only a way to popularize public transport, but also an effort to attract employees. It is no secret that sometimes it is not easy for companies to find the missing specialists. Therefore, they try to attract them in various ways, offering a variety of benefits. The municipality offers potential specialists free travel around Vilnius.
"Vilnius Municipality encourages its employees to choose sustainable and harmonious ways of moving around the city. Therefore, since 2018, employees who refuse to park their car in the municipal underground parking lot will be granted an annual allowance." public transport "a ticket valid on weekdays. The municipality has currently purchased 644 such tickets," comments Gabrielius Grubinskas, Vilnius city municipalities Media relations specialist.
While such a strategy may cause public outrage, especially considering that public transport ticket prices are set to rise soon, this practice is not limited to the municipality. Various companies in Vilnius can purchase annual passes for their employees, and it turns out to be a widespread practice.
"A similar incentive measure is being applied by approximately 800 other companies operating in Vilnius, which have purchased public transport tickets for their employees on their own initiative," says a representative of the municipality.
The municipality believes that this initiative not only attracts potential employees, but also, to a certain extent, can reduce congestion in Vilnius, since the municipality is located on one of the busiest streets in the city. Although this may not please public transport enthusiasts and Vilnius residents, for whom the price of tickets will increase from July, it is a good way to encourage residents to use public transport. Starting with their own employees, who will not feel the price increase.
