Categories: CharityCommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Asheville Promotes Sustainable Transportation Initiative

Asheville residents using sustainable transportation methods

News Summary

The City of Asheville is launching a week-long initiative to promote sustainable transportation, offering free rides on ART buses. The ‘Strive Not to Drive Week’ encourages residents to use public transport and engage in various eco-friendly activities, reducing their carbon footprint and traffic congestion while benefiting local businesses.

Asheville – The City of Asheville has launched a week-long initiative to promote sustainable transportation, offering free rides on all Asheville Rides Transit (ART) buses on Monday, May 19, 2025. This initiative is part of the annual ‘Strive Not to Drive Week,’ which runs until Saturday, May 24, and encourages residents to reduce their carbon footprint by utilizing public transportation.

Throughout the remainder of the week, ART bus fares will be set at $1 per ride. The event aims to inspire residents to explore various modes of transportation, including carpooling, biking, walking, and riding the bus, thereby reducing the number of individuals who drive alone. This change not only helps alleviate traffic congestion but also supports local businesses by making it more convenient to stop and engage with them.

The week is supported by a network of community partners committed to creating a sustainable, bike-friendly, walk-friendly, and transit-friendly environment throughout Asheville and the surrounding region. The initiative highlights the various health, environmental, and economic benefits of eco-friendly commuting for families and individuals alike.

Various activities are scheduled for the week, including:

Roll Out of Work social bike ride on May 16
Bike Polo Newbie Night on May 18
Free Transit Day on May 19
Walk/Bike Audit Training Session on May 20
Lucy Herring Walk/Bike Audit on May 21
International Ride of Silence on May 21, honoring cyclists who have been killed or injured
Bike-In Cinema showing “E.T.” on May 22
Smart Cycling Class on May 24
Downtown Dollars promotion rewarding customers for visiting businesses without a car from May 16-24

In addition to these activities, employers will have the opportunity to participate in a webinar about the ART Passport Program. This program allows companies to provide fare-free transportation for their employees, further promoting the use of public transport.

The ‘Strive Not to Drive’ initiative has been an ongoing event since the 1980s, serving as a platform to promote sustainable transportation methods in Asheville. The program focuses on establishing new habits that lead toward a healthier lifestyle and a more eco-conscious community.

Community groups participating in this initiative include AARP, Asheville Bike Polo, Asheville on Bikes, and Apple Country Public Transit. All activities are coordinated by the Land of Sky Transportation Demand Management Program, which aims to enhance transportation options for residents.

This week-long initiative not only fosters an eco-friendly mindset among Asheville residents but also promotes community engagement through collaborative activities. Participants are encouraged to explore different modes of transportation, making a positive impact on their environment, community, and personal health.

With increased awareness of the benefits of sustainable transportation, Asheville’s ‘Strive Not to Drive Week’ continues to be an important event fostering responsible commuting habits and showcasing the joys of exploring the city without a personal vehicle.