WASHINGTON, D.C. – International Car Free Day (CFD) is Thursday, September 22 and metropolitan Washington area commuters, residents, and students who participate by taking the pledge to go car free or car-lite at www.carfreemetrodc.org will qualify to win great prizes such as gift certificates to restaurants and retailers. Participants will join commuters in 1,500 cities and more than 40 countries in trying alternate, more efficient transportation options for the day.

Participants can share their preferred alternative mode of travel on September 22, by taking the free pledge to join #teambike, #teamwalk, #teamrail, #teambus, #teampool, or #teamtelework at www.carfreemetrodc.org. 

Since 2008, Commuter Connections has organized Car Free Day in the metropolitan Washington area, and each year thousands pledge to try more environmentally friendly, efficient transportation options that can fit into their daily lives.

This year, Car Free Day will occur during SafeTrack, the Metrorail track work plan that has affected commuters across the region.

“Car Free Day goes beyond helping the environment, it is an opportunity to reduce gridlock, saving commuters time and money,” said Nicholas Ramfos, Commuter Connections Director. “This year is an especially important Car Free Day because it’s a chance for residents impacted by SafeTrack to discover new, alternative ways to travel and have the chance to win a great prize for their efforts.”

Metro’s SafeTrack Surge #9 will impact area residents using the Orange line trains between Vienna and West Falls Church beginning September 15, and continuing through Wednesday, October 26.

Travelers who take the pledge will automatically be entered to win prizes donated by regional sponsors who support their efforts to improve mobility and the environment. 

Stay up to date on #CarFreeDay on Facebook and Twitter.