City Council Proclaims “Week Without Driving” to highlight importance of mobility access

City Council Proclaims "Week Without Driving" to highlight importance of mobility access

September 20, 2024

On Monday, Sept. 16, the Vancouver City Council officially proclaimed the week of Sept. 30 - Oct. 6 as "Week Without Driving" (WWD) to raise awareness about the importance of mobility access in the region.

The proclamation is part of the Fourth Annual WWD challenge that was first launched in Washington state in 2021 by Disability Rights Washington and America Walks, and has since become a national event, with over 300 organizations co-hosting the initiative across all 50 states. The challenge's goal is to show the daily struggles faced by nearly a third of people living in the United States who rely on walking, rolling, transit, and asking for rides due to disabilities, age, or financial constraints.

"Access to mobility is a fundamental part of health and community connection, allowing people to reach education and employment opportunities, medical services, shopping, recreation and to visit friends and family," said Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle. "It is also one of Washington State's six transportation system policy goals, including investing public dollars to improve the movement of people throughout the state."

By participating in this challenge, elected leaders, advocates and individuals can gain firsthand experience and understanding of the barriers and challenges that nondrivers face. Participants are encouraged to get around using any means other than driving themselves for all activities during the designated week. This includes work commutes and other daily tasks. The goal is not to simply avoid using a car but rather to experience what it's like to navigate communities without the privilege of driving.

To be entered in the Week Without Driving Challenge, sign up online and log non-drive-alone trips on Get There SW Washington all week long. 25 people will win a $25 gift card for their participation. Learn more about the Week Without Driving.

Media contact:Olivia Kahn, Transportation Demand Management Coordinator, City of Vancouver, [email protected]