Subject
title
Proclamation Declaring September 22, 2025, as Car Free Day in Rockville, Maryland
end
Department
City Clerk/Director of Council Operations Office
Recommendation
Staff recommends the Mayor and Council read, approve and present proclamation to Jake Jakubek, Chair, Rockville Bicycle Advisory Committee.
Discussion
Car Free Day is an international event celebrated every September 22 to encourage people to travel by train, bus, bicycle, carpool, van pool, subway, or walk for commuting or errands, instead of driving. Car Free Day is organized in various cities throughout the world in different ways, all with the common goal of reducing the number of cars on the streets. The benefit to the greater society is a day with less traffic congestion, better air quality, healthier travel habits, and reduced gasoline demand.
The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, through the Transportation Planning Board (TPB) of the National Capital Region, promotes Car Free Day. Locally, Car Free Day was first recognized by the District of Columbia in 2007. A regional rollout occurred in 2008 with TPB support. The Council of Governments' Commuter Connections Program promotes and organizes the annual Car Free Day event, along with its network members throughout the region. The program primarily encourages individuals who ordinarily travel alone by car for work, errands, and classes. Secondary groups are those already in car-free travel modes.
Individuals interested in participating in Car Free Day can sign an online pledge promising to walk, bicycle, carpool, use transit, or telecommute instead of driving on September 22. The pledge is available at www.carfreemetrodc.org
Mayor and Council History
The Mayor and Council present this proclamation annually.