http://toddmundt.disqus.com/convergence, public media, productivity, social mediaenSun, 18 Jan 2009 23:11:31 -0000http://toddmundt.com/blog/2008/05/18/the-cost-of-owning-a-car-that-sits-more-than-it-drives/#comment-5285742<p>Get a used scooter. The convenience will more than pay for itself off. And join a car co op although the use of which is pricey compared to owning a used car, is comparable compared to owning a new car.</p>FefrieSun, 18 Jan 2009 23:11:31 -0000http://toddmundt.com/blog/2008/05/18/the-cost-of-owning-a-car-that-sits-more-than-it-drives/#comment-5273361<p>Hi Todd,</p><p>I also was in your situation, and although I was petrified, I took the big bite, and got rid of my car. I was so fearful at first, wondering how I would get to the hospital at 3:00am if something happened, and how I would survive without the 1:00am drives I used to take when I couldn't sleep....</p><p>Well, after one month's time without, I had a complete epiphany. I realized that I was alot less stressed out, since I didn't have to worry about people breaking into my car, and I didn't have to waste a couple hours per weekend washing the car, nor worry about taking it into get maintenance done. Not only that, I saved an extra $300/month because I wasn't buying as many frivolous things at the store (since it wouldn't be so easy taking them home).</p><p>Now, one and a half years later, I worry about the day I might have to go back to owning a car (i.e. if my work moves to a remote location). I'm very content and much less stressed without. I dont need to worry about my 1:00am drives, since I'm sleeping much better than ever! All I can say is not only better for the environment, but it's better for you too. I hope you find the courage to take the plunge and go car-free!</p><p>Best regards,<br></p>VickiSun, 18 Jan 2009 20:21:34 -0000http://toddmundt.com/blog/2008/05/18/the-cost-of-owning-a-car-that-sits-more-than-it-drives/#comment-3909851<p>The Segways are pricey, but use no gas. Others have suggested biking to me, but my beef there is that I don't want to show up at work sweaty, nor do I want to deal with basically a second set of clothes for riding (that adds commute time because of the changing of clothes and such).</p>ArtificialThu, 20 Nov 2008 03:12:24 -0000http://toddmundt.com/blog/2008/05/18/the-cost-of-owning-a-car-that-sits-more-than-it-drives/#comment-488441<p>Todd - I feel your frustration. The University I work for has negotiated a deal with the Cincinnati transit system to allow all of its students, faculty and staff to ride for free. Brilliant, right? I have an excellent connection and the schedule is reasonably convenient. Problem is, if I give up my campus parking pass (which I pay $75/month for) I may not be able to get it back should I decide to drive in during the colder months because there are long waiting lists. Parking Services refuses to re-consider their pay-structure, so it's either 75/month for unlimited parking or... take your chances at the meter. Subsequently, since I'm stuck paying 75/month either way, I have little motivation to take the bus (I live ~5 miles from work so the gas savings aren't enough of an incentive in light of the convenience I'd be giving up). This is frustrating, since I feel like there is an opportunity being missed here... and all the parties involved would benefit if this plan were implemented well.</p><p>On a bright note - I consider living within walking distance of everything a huge luxury, and I'm sure you do as well. Ann Arbor was supposedly soooo convenient, and yet I still found myself in the car for 30-40 minutes at a time, and often on the freeway. Maybe I was doing something wrong... :)</p><p></p>MaggieMon, 19 May 2008 00:26:51 -0000http://toddmundt.com/blog/2008/05/18/the-cost-of-owning-a-car-that-sits-more-than-it-drives/#comment-488346<p>My proposal:<br>1. Get rid of the car as soon as you can<br>2. Rent a car when you need it OR buy a cheap one (like Robert Paterson's Echo/Yaris or maybe the new Smart car) and own it outright (no leasing!)<br>3. Buy a Segway to get to work. It'll cut your 40-minute walk down to a 10-minute roll (or less).</p><p>I've actually looked into the Segway lately because I'm in the same situation, where I live close to work and necessary shopping, but still need a car occasionally and only buy one tank of gas per month.</p><p>The Segways are pricey, but use no gas. Others have suggested biking to me, but my beef there is that I don't want to show up at work sweaty, nor do I want to deal with basically a second set of clothes for riding (that adds commute time because of the changing of clothes and such).</p><p>Just a thought!</p>jmproffittSun, 18 May 2008 23:58:39 -0000http://toddmundt.com/blog/2008/05/18/the-cost-of-owning-a-car-that-sits-more-than-it-drives/#comment-487771<p>yep, that's one of the options I'm considering. </p>toddmundtSun, 18 May 2008 20:13:14 -0000http://toddmundt.com/blog/2008/05/18/the-cost-of-owning-a-car-that-sits-more-than-it-drives/#comment-487736<p>Bicycle?</p>W.P. FleischmannSun, 18 May 2008 19:59:51 -0000