September 22 is Car Free Day—hosted in the DC region by Commuter Connections. Car Free Day is a great opportunity to try out different modes of transportation and to see what traffic looks like with a few less cars on the roads.
For employers and commercial properties, this event is a way to promote sustainability, and also encourage health, wellness, and financial savings. In addition, since September is National Preparedness Month, Car Free Day is also a good time for employees to plan and practice a backup commute plan, in case they are unable to drive or can’t access their usual commute mode during an emergency.
Below are a few ways businesses and property managers can promote Car Free Day and encourage employees to take the pledge and participate on September 22.
1. Distribute Website and Pledge
For property managers, encourage tenant representatives to forward CarFreeMetroDC.org and the pledge link to their employees via email. Pledge and join Team Bike, Bus, Carpool/Vanpool, Rail, Telework, or Walk.
2. Post the Flyer
Display the flyers in building lobbies, elevators and parking garages to provide a visual reminder.
3. Provide Employees with Trip Planning Assistance
Arlington Transportation Partners (ATP) can work with individuals unfamiliar with their non-driving options to find the best routes from point A to point B using public transit, biking, walking, and carpooling. Request your custom commute.
4. Host an Appreciation Event
Host an event on Car Free Day to encourage employees or tenants to participate and to give them an opportunity to ask transportation questions. This is also another chance to highlight current employee commute benefits and building transportation amenities.
5. Provide Prizes and Giveaways
Giveaways such as preloaded SmarTrip cards or free bike tune-ups for your employees or tenants is another way you can reach out to them to participate.
Remember, Car Free Day does not mean employees have to get rid of their car or leave it at home for the entire day. Participants are encouraged to try out a non-driving mode for just one trip during the day, whether it’s taking the bus to work, riding Capital Bikeshare to lunch, or taking UberPool/LyftLine out to dinner.
Photo Credit: Sam Kittner/Kittner.com
