Whether they drive luxury cars or clunkers, motorists around the world are supposed to give up their wheels Sept. 22 for alternative transportation during World Car Free Day.
Apparently the move toward sustainability has garnered a pledge by more than 8,000 D.C. residents who will opt for walking, biking or public transportation for their daily commute.
D.C. organizers have a goal to sign up 10,000 people before the day.
“So many area organizations and governments have come together to get people excited about taking the pledge to go Car Free on September 22, and their efforts seem to be paying off,” goDCgo wrote on their blog.
When “car free” enthusiasts fill out a pledge form at Carfreemetrodc.com, they are automatically signed up to win prizes such as an Apple iPad, $25 SmarTrip cards and an annual membership for the Capital Bikeshare program. And all who pledged will receive a coupon for free lunch at Flippin’ Pizza.
Throughout the day, participants can enjoy giveaways and drawings at Metrorail stations in Montgomery County, Md. Additionally, Bike and Roll will offer free bicycle rentals and the TransIT Services of Frederick County will offer free bus rides on Connectors and shuttles.
D.C.’s Capital Bikeshare program will celebrate its first birthday at The Yards Park on the Anacostia River. The first 1,000 attendees will get a free Capital Bikeshare t-shirt, free water bottles from Whole Foods. Crystal City Bid will lead a group of bikers from the Bikeshare station at 18th & S. Bell in Crystal City at 5:15 p.m. to the birthday bash.
For more information, go to Carfreemetrodc.com.