Go car free, car lite or un-car on Sept. 22

The National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board (TPB) has notified us that it is officially recognizing Thursday, Sept. 22, as “Car Free Day” in the Washington region.

Those who need to go to work or be out and about on Sept. 22 are encouraged to avoid driving. Alternative transportation modes suggested are public transit, carpooling, teleworking, vanpooling, bicycling and walking to repalce or supplement the single-occupancy automobile. Sept. 22 can be a day with less traffic congestion, a greener environment and reduced gasoline demand, according to the day’s promoters.

The TPB estimates that between now and 2030 the region will add 1.2 million people, 3.9 million daily vehicle trips and will average 25 million more vehicle miles traveled per day, according to a statement.

For more information on Car Free Day, visit http://www.carfreemetrodc.com where there is a pledge card, a list of related events and offers. According to the website, the car-free day will be observed in 1500 cities and 40 countries around the world.