Iowa's Graceland U. adds car sharing option

Lamoni, Iowa-based Graceland University partnered with UhaulCarShare to provide services on campus.

UhaulCarShare is placing one vehicle, a Mazda 3, on campus for the start of the 2012 fall semester. The vehicle will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to all students, faculty and staff members, 18 years of age and older.

"The concept of sharing resources, such as the new shared vehicle, is the crux of innovative and sustainable economies. Not only that, resource sharing has also been shown to help build community,” said Jennifer Abraham-White, Graceland University sustainability coordinator. “The Graceland University Sustainability Office looks forward to working with the UhaulCarShare program to provide this unique service to students and Lamoni residents. The car share program is just another example of how Graceland University is exhibiting a commitment to pro-environmental action and responsible education."

With a unique flexible-rate system, members are able to enjoy the benefits of driving without having to worry about over paying for mileage. Members pay only for what they use, in one low hourly rate starting at $4.95 per hour, plus 59 cents per mile. For those who drive longer distances, UhaulCarShare also offers rates with 180 free miles, starting at $8.50 per hour, depending on the vehicle.

Gas, insurance, maintenance, reserved parking spots and 24/7 roadside assistance are included in the hourly and daily rates.