Madison Reporter

In September, residents and commuters in Dane County took part in the RoundTrip Smart Trips Challenge, logging a total of 5,457 car-free and car-light trips. This initiative resulted in the prevention of over 10.3 tons of carbon dioxide emissions. According to the program's calculations, this is equivalent to growing 12 acres of U.S. forests for an entire year.

This event was part of the RoundTrip program’s second annual fall transportation challenge. The program is available at no cost to individuals aged 18 and older who either live or work in Dane County. It aims to connect participants with various transportation options such as carpooling, biking, vanpooling, public transit, and walking. Additionally, it provides education on how reducing car usage can positively impact personal finances, health, and the environment.

To participate in the challenge, individuals were required to create a free RoundTrip account and record their car-free and car-light trips related to work, school, errands, and entertainment. Participants who logged four round trips each week or fifteen throughout the month qualified for weekly and grand prize drawings. There was also a special drawing for those who recorded at least four round trips on the bus. This was in celebration of Metro Transit BRT's launch along with Fast Fare cards introduced in September.