Pledge to ditch the commute this Thursday and you could win an iPad, bicycle, Nationals tickets and more.
September 22, 2011 is the worldwide Car Free Day, in which you're encouraged to "uncar" yourself and go car-free or car-lite.
It's easy, simply take the pledge between now and 5pm on Thursday to be entered to win. Wondering how to put less miles on your car? Here are a few tips:
- Stretch your legs with Capital Bikeshare, the short term bicycle rental option available currently in Washington, DC and Arlington, VA. Rides up to 30 minutes are free and you can return the bike to any kiosk nearest your destination. Wanna learn more? Attend the Capital Bikeshare Birthday Bash this Thursday, September 22 from 6 PM - 9 PM for live music, $5 craft brews, food trucks, giveaways and much more! Also, for the chance to win a free membership, "like" EYA on Facebook.
- Carpooling is a great choice for commuters who don't have easy access to public transportation options. You're already headed from point A to point B. Why not hop in for a relaxing ride with folks headed the same place? It's easy to find a ride partner from one of the numerous carpooling websites here. Vanpooling is an excellent choice, too. Simply drop your car at a park-n-ride lot and hitch a ride in the roomy, full-size van. You'll save money and time.
- Washingtonians have a pretty robust rail system for daily commuting. Between Metrorail and Commuter Rail, there's bound to be a line along your route. You can kick back with a book or newspaper and before you know it, you've arrived at your destination. Many rail stations have daily parking available, if your station isn't within walking distance.
- If you haven't tried public bus service recently, you'd be amazed at how thorough the routes are (and how efficient, too). It can be a very affordable option (and sometime free - for super local rides on the Bethesda Circulator).
- Worried you'll be car-free when you need to hop in a ride fast? Zipcar has thousands of cars conveniently located throughout the DC area. A small membership fee and driving credits cover gas and insurance and the flexibility is priceless. Of course, there's always the beloved Washington taxi service when you're in a pinch.
- Walking might be the best option for your pocketbook and your heart. With so many pretty tree-lined streets, Fall is the perfect time to ditch the car for a leisurely stroll to the office. Of course, if you want to live closer to work, shopping and dining, an EYA neighborhood is perfect for you.