We had an office-wide meeting yesterday, never a good thing in this economic climate. I had been hoping it would simply be to announce the layoffs that occurred last Friday, so folks who weren't there at the time could hear the official rendition. No such luck. Instead we learned that the company will no longer be paying for our parking expenses. Our office is downtown; there is no free parking anywhere even remotely nearby. Apparently the passes the company has been buying for us in the garage across the street cost $75/month, and if we want to continue parking there, we now have to pay ourselves.
Effective immediately.
So starting today, I'm riding the bus. I actually enjoy riding the bus, and find it much less stressful than the idea of carpooling, which I'm also contemplating. However, the bus fare is $40/month out of pocket that I wasn't spending last week. [I have fuel efficient car, and a short commute, so only use about one gallon of gas a week getting to and from work.]
And the most depressing thing? The bus company has announced plans to raise fares in the beginning of May, and to simultaneously cut back on services. Of course my route is one of those slated to be eliminated. I will still be able to catch a bus, but will have to walk much further to get to a stop, and will have to pay $60/month. I have a feeling carpooling will look a lot better come May.
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8 comments:
Ai-yi-yi, things are definitely getting worse--now you will regret having had your job move into the city, I guess. Is there anyone to carpool WITH?
Hmmm. Well, I guess that's better than another person fired ...
So sorry to hear! At least you know of the bus route. Our public transit raised their fees as well .25 cents. Ridiculous.
BerryBird, I'm sorry to hear about the added stress. I hope things start looking up soon.
I suppose riding your bike isn't a feasible idea...
Hang in there, that sounds very scary. I dearly hope that this economy turns around sooner than later. It is affecting everybody in one way or another.
You've been tagged. Please see link:
http://mommaval.blogspot.com/2009/02/10-of-my-quirks.html
Have fun!!!
Berry Bird! I haven't been visiting like I should so I'm saddened to hear you're under all this stress. I guess a lot of us are in the same boat, sadly.
I'll keep you in my thoughts and hope your job stays intact. I hope you find some carpoolers too!
My best friend is in the Phillipines training people to do her job and they'll make $14 per day. Geesh....
Well, you know, if the bus is going to be $60.00 a month anyway, you might as well just pay the extra $15.00 and keep your parking pass.
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