Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWC™), a national recognition program celebrating employers, universities, commercial sites and residential communities that are leading the future of commuter-friendly transportation, hosted transportation leaders from across the Commonwealth to recognize local organizations and officially launch the 2027 BWC application cycle.
The ceremony brought together representatives from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT), the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA), and the transportation departments from Fairfax County, Loudoun County, Prince William County and the City of Alexandria.
Earlier this year, Virginia was recognized as the nation’s top state for honoring Best Workplace for Commuters — celebrating organizations who have prioritized innovative programs and benefits that enhance employee well-being, reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality. These companies, non-profit organizations and associations, residential properties, colleges and universities, and worksites represent an ever-growing list of "Best Workplaces" in the United States and Canada.
The event, organized by the Fairfax County Department of Transportation’s Commuter Services team, was emceed by team lead Marcus Moore, who encouraged other local jurisdictions to keep Virginia at the top of the national leaderboard.
“This designation reflects the concerted efforts of transportation agencies throughout the commonwealth engaging with worksites who are, themselves, prioritizing effective transportation options that benefit their employees and the communities of which they are a part,” he said. “It’s been a group effort to set this standard for the nation, and it will take a group effort to continue raising the bar for the future.”
The livestreamed ceremony from NVTA’s office in Vienna, VA highlighted:
- Virginia’s leadership in commuter benefits and transportation demand management
- Statewide collaboration among transportation agencies and local partners
- Success stories from organizations across the U.S. and CanadaLaunch of the 2027 BWC application period
“Virginia has established itself as a national leader in promoting commuter-friendly workplaces and communities,” said Monica Backmon, CEO of NVTA (pictured below). “By expanding transportation choices and providing commuter benefits, organizations across the Commonwealth are reducing congestion, improving quality of life and strengthening mobility. We were proud to host this event and celebrate the partnerships that continue to make Virginia a national model."
“Virginia is proud to lead the nation in advancing commuter-friendly workplaces,” said Chris Arabia, Manager of Statewide Commuter Programs, DRPT. “Our partnership with Best Workplaces for Commuters reflects our commitment to expanding transportation options, strengthening our workforce, and supporting employers who are creating more accessible and sustainable ways to get to work.”
VDOT Northern Virginia District Engineer Bill Cuttler shared, "VDOT is proud to support the BWC program by providing a robust multimodal transportation network that allows businesses and commuters to have reliable travel options. The BWC program helps commuters make use of various modes through incentivizing transit, vanpooling, biking, and more."
“Best Workplaces for Commuters is more than a recognition program, it’s a platform for innovation and collaboration,” said Julie Bond, BWC program director. “As we celebrate 20 years of BWC, we’re proud to build on that legacy while helping organizations lead the next generation of commuter solutions.”
Apply for the 2027 List
Employers, universities, colleges, commercial sites and residential communities are invited to apply for the prestigious BWC designation. Participants join a growing national network of hundreds of recognized worksites and communities across the country committed to advancing smarter, safer and more sustainable transportation solutions. Organizations that achieve BWC designation demonstrate leadership in advancing transportation demand management strategies that enhance employee satisfaction, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen regional mobility systems.
Currently, Fairfax County has nearly 200 BWC designees. Benefits for Fairfax County employers include:
- Local and national recognition for commuter-friendly leadership
- Access to tools, training and technical assistance
- Connections to a nationwide network of transportation and sustainability leaders
Interested in becoming a Fairfax County Best Workplace for Commuters? Contact the Fairfax County Commuter Services team at 703-877-5900 or via email.
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About Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWC™)
BWC™ is a national recognition program managed by the Center for Urban Transportation Research at the University of South Florida. Originally established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, BWC has supported organizations for more than 20 years in delivering outstanding commuter benefits and advancing innovative transportation solutions that contribute to a more sustainable and economically vibrant future.