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The city of Albuquerque is encouraging commuters to leave their cars at home as part of Strive Not to Drive week.

"The public seems to be motivated - especially in these times of rising gas prices - to see alternative modes of transportation," said Nick Manole, customer service supervisor for ABQ Ride.

Incentives cover the gamut of alternative transportation: The city's buses will be free on Wednesday, and the New Mexico Rail Runner Express commuter train will waive the fee on Thursday for bus riders who transfer.

On Friday, which is National Bike to Work Day, the city will provide juice and bagels to riders at the Downtown train station.

Car pooling is encouraged today, and the city's park-and-ride bus option is being highlighted Tuesday.

"Hopefully, it's a week where people who have never considered it before will discover alternative forms of transportation," Manole said.

Manole sees the e-mails from commuters, such as those needing directions and schedules.

"More and more, I'm seeing first-timers calling and inquiring as to how they get can get from Point A to Point B on the bus," he said.

Manole also said spiraling gas prices seem to be nudging more folks to public transit.

"What I'm seeing on the Web site is people saying, `I can no longer afford filling my SUV up at $80 each week," he said. "That's what I'm seeing: `I'm finally parking my SUV.' "

To ease the minds of those who are unfamiliar with the bus system and might fear getting stranded, there is the Guaranteed Ride Home program. Manole said it helps take the worry out of commuting.

The program is for people who bike or walk or take the bus or train at least three times a week. It promises to those who sign up that if they get stranded, they can call for a free ride to work, school or home.

Commuters need to go to the city's Web site - www.cabq.gov/transit - to register for the program.

Manole also said extra buses will be put on the street this week to accommodate more riders.