Happy #WorldCarFreeDay #carfreeday
Around the world on September 22, people recognize that we don’t have to accept an automobile-centric world. As the organizers point out, “As the climate heats up, World Carfree Day is the perfect time to take the heat off the planet, and put it on city planners and politicians to give priority to cycling, walking and public transport, instead of to the automobile.”
https://worldcarfree.net/wcfd
Being car-free isn’t for everyone–I certainly know that. But we can recognize that not everyone can or does own or drive a car (18% of Milwaukee households don’t have a car). So while you may still drive an automobile, remember the choices that are possible without one and remember the people who choose not to have one or who cannot have or drive one.
Of course, carfree doesn’t mean streetcar-free. The day specifically recognizes the role of public transit. In fact, for both this spring and summer seasons, I’ve used only walking and The Hop streetcar to get around. I’ve not even used an MCTS bus. So I’ve not ridden in rubber-tired vehicle for over six months. I can say this: it is possible, enjoyable, and by living in downtown, along the Main Line, I’ve found it has worked for me–to get groceries, the doctor’s office, restaurants, cafes, activities, riverwalk, events, and more. I would prefer to live no other way.
My car-free resources:
https://www.december.com/places/people/carfree.html
MKE Transit:
https://www.december.com/places/mke/transit.html