3 Maine Colleges Expand Car Sharing Program

Zipcar, the world's largest provider of cars on demand by the hour or day, will provide its vehicles to three Maine campuses -- Bowdoin College, Colby College and the University of New England, according to an Aug. 26 press release.

Two self-service Zipcars will be at each school. The cars will be available to all staff and students aged 18+, with gas, maintenance, insurance and reserved parking included in low hourly and daily rates.

"Zipcar offers a wonderful way for Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff to take cars off the road and reduce our carbon footprint," says Bowdoin College Dean of Student Affairs Tim Foster. "Beginning with the Class of 2013, first-year students will no longer be able to have cars on campus and Zipcar will provide an inexpensive and convenient alternative for them and for our upper-class students, faculty, and staff."

Faculty, staff, and students will be able to join the program for $35 and will gain access to Zipcars for $7 per hour and $60-$70 per day. Local resident ages 21 and up can also join for $75 ($25 one-time application fee and $50 annual fee).