This year, Movability is proud to participate with our coalition partners ADAPT of Texas, Transit Forward, Safe Streets Austin, AURA, Rethink35, Reconnect Austin, Austin Urbanistas, Urban Austin Reads, Future of New Urbanism - Central Texas (FNU-CTX), and Black + Motal Architecture and Urban Design in the #WeekWithoutDriving from September 30th to October 6th, a challenge that invites us to experience the everyday realities of those who, by circumstance or choice, do not drive.
Nearly a third of people in the United States, including individuals with disabilities, young people, seniors, and those who cannot afford the costs associated with car ownership, navigate their lives without personal vehicles. Their experiences highlight the importance of connected, accessible, reliable public transit and safe, active transportation options for all.
The Week Without Driving is not just an opportunity to reflect on the challenges faced by nondrivers; it's a call to transformative action for creating stronger, inclusive communities. Whether it's understanding the significance of every trip made without a car or considering the complexities of relying on others for transportation, this challenge encourages empathy and insight into the diverse needs of our community members.
As an organization dedicated to building the region around people, not cars, we see the Week Without Driving as a critical step toward recognizing and dismantling the barriers to mobility many face daily. This challenge also sheds light on a crucial intersection of transportation, economic stability, access to services, the environment, housing, public health and social equity.
Throughout the Week Without Driving, we'll be sharing stories, resources, and reflections on how transportation accessibility impacts community wellbeing. We invite you to join us in this eye-opening experience. Let's embrace transit, walking, rolling and biking, exploring how each trip counts towards building a more connected and equitable world and amplifying the voices of those often left out in discussions about mobility. Learn more and join the challenge.