The SmartRoute's blog is moving to a new URL.  

As of 6/7/07 you can go to http://html.thebostonchannel.com/sh/blogger/bossmartroutesblog.html

We're still getting up to speed with the graphics and such, but it's the place to go to see our updates from now on. 

Here's a link to Channel 5's story about Boston City Councilor Robert Consalvo's idea to ask drivers to take a pledge to drive the speed limit.  Participating drivers would get a bumper sticker to identify them as a participant in the "Pace Car" program. 

http://www.thebostonchannel.com/news/13458415/detail.html

You can weigh in on Channel 5's survey, too.  Do you think this is a practical idea that would work?  As for me, I try to drive as safely as possible and follow speed limits, but I must admit a bumper sticker has never adorned my car's bumper and never will.  I am not a "sticker" person.  I must say I don't even like when glue is left behind on my windshield once I get my new MA inspection sticker.  Those of us who carry dusters in our car would probably not go for the bumper sticker option, but I would take the pledge!

What do you think?

Gas prices are at record high levels.  

Some experts believe that changing the way we drive and maintaining our vehicles can improve our gas mileage by as much as 20%, or more.

Here’s a list of very reasonable actions you can take to improve your gas mileage.

Driving Behavior

· Jackrabbit Starts – If you’re gunning it when the light changes, it’s like you’re pouring gas down the drain. Listen to your engine when you “floor it”, that’s the sound of your pockets emptying of money. Accelerate slowly.

· Slow down – Some estimates show that cars get about 21% better gas mileage at 55 mph then at 70 mph.

· Anticipate Stops – Look ahead as you’re driving. If there’s congestion or a stop sign ahead, take your foot off the gas, coast as much as possible. Getting to the red light faster isn’t going to save you time.

· Bumper to Bumper Traffic – Don’t be so aggressive in traffic. If traffic is jammed, the constant repetition of accelerating – braking – accelerating – braking… burns a huge amount of gas. You’ll get better mileage if you allow more space between your car and the car in front of you.

· Turn off the AC – Yes, it might be somewhat less comfortable. No-one said it was going to be easy.

· Right foot driving – Use your right foot to for both accelerating and braking. This reduces the chance that you might be accidentally riding the brake.

· Hills - Build up speed before you reach a hill; maintain steady speed on the up-slope, then coast down the other side.

· If you’re stopped for more than 30 seconds, shut off your engine.

Car Care Suggestions

· Tire Pressure – Make sure your tires are properly inflated.

· Keep your engine tuned – A hard starting engine wastes gas. Think about new spark plugs and filters. Having your mechanic tweak the timing could help too.

· Oil Change – Make sure to change your oil regularly.

· Keep your wheels aligned.

· Clean out your trunk – Every unnecessary pound increases gas consumption.

· Remove items that cause wind resistance such as luggage and bike racks.

Lifestyle Suggestions

· For shorter trips, walk or bike instead. Get a little exercise.

· Consider car pooling

· Take the MBTA

· Avoid driving during rush hour when you’re much more likely to sit in traffic.

· Let your kids run errands. They have young legs, make them can earn their rent.

· Consolidate Errands – Try to get everything done in one trip.

· Plan ahead so that you are not late and don’t need to speed to appointments.