This summer’s Carefree Commuter Challenge inspired people to get out of their cars and use healthier options to get to work.
More than 200 local businesses and 1,600 employees joined the challenge to use what’s described as sustainable transportation. Walking, biking, taking transit, carpooling and telecommuting are considered sustainable options because they reduce the number of drive-alone trips.
The month-long event, sponsored by Metro and organized by the Westside Transportation Alliance as well as Drive Less/Save More, proved a big success. Participants reduced their drive-alone miles by 43 percent and carbon emissions dropped 37 percent during the challenge. Biking to work rose 80 percent during the July event. In return for taking the challenge, participants saved money – $236,438 in total – and won prizes.
Metro encourages the use of travel options that benefit the community by reducing congestion on roadways and pollution in the air. Active transportation such as walking and biking also create a healthier lifestyle, increasing heart and mental health as well as stamina.
The following businesses received honors for the highest percentage of employees joining in this year’s Carefree Commuter Challenge:
- Public sector category: City of Portland, Bureau of Planning and Sustainability - 15.4 percent
- Mega category (1000 or more employees): Con-way – 6 percent
- Large category (500-999 employees): The Standard, PSB – 8 percent
- Medium category (100-499 employees): Portland Energy Conservation Inc. – 61 percent
- Small category (15-99 employees): THA Architects – 58 percent
- Micro category (fewer than 15 employees): Integral Consulting – 92 percent
Metro and the Westside Transportation Alliance thank all those who took part in the friendly competition.