JACKSON, Wyo. — On Tuesday, June 11, the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce released its Business Needs and Employee Support During Teton Pass Closure Survey in an effort to better assist Jackson businesses and their staff.
“As our community navigates the closure of Teton Pass, we understand that many businesses and their employees face significant challenges, particularly with the extended commute times,” the Chamber said in the announcement. “This survey aims to identify the specific needs and priorities of employers and businesses, focusing on the well-being and support of your staff. “
The survey asks employers several questions, including, “What specific support would be most beneficial to your staff during the extended commute period due to the Teton Pass closure?”
President and CEO of the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce Rick Howe told Buckrail that the survey results will help the Chamber to partner people with emergency resources that are being created in real time. Howe says that the best way the Chamber can support businesses is by gathering and sharing feedback and ideas from businesses and staff, including their “pain points” with local, state and federal partners. According to the Chamber, survey results will help prompt actions and emergency solutions.
In addition to the survey, the Chamber offers tips for navigating the pass closure at this time.
- Employers — Consider implementing a hybrid schedule to ease the burden on staff who drive through the passes and canyons between 6 to 8 a.m. For example, have Jackson staff start earlier and commuting staff arrive later and stay later. Get creative and discuss potential solutions with employees.
- Commuters — Carpool with colleagues or friends who have similar schedules. Discuss setting up a ride-share program to the START transfer stops or arrange to share rides for the entire commute. Reducing the number of single-occupancy vehicles can help alleviate road congestion during the closure.
“Let’s take extra effort to show our appreciation to all our staff, who are the reason we can be such a great destination, especially those with no choice right now but to have an extended commute that adds time to their day that is usually spent on family and living,” Howe said. “We are all part of a Teton regional family, and let’s make sure we do everything we can to support each other.”
If any organization, business or individual has resources to share or would like to offer community support, email casey@jacksonholechamber.com with the details.
