Madison Reporter

More than 300 residents in Dane County participated in the Smart Trips Challenge this September, opting for transportation methods such as biking, walking, taking the bus, and carpooling instead of driving alone. According to organizers, these efforts led to a reduction of over 17 tons of carbon dioxide emissions and saved participants more than $12,000.

The challenge was organized by RoundTrip Greater Madison, which is part of the Greater Madison Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). The goal of RoundTrip is to assist local residents in finding carpool and bike partners in order to help reduce traffic congestion, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and save money on commuting.

Participants recorded their trips throughout the month for a chance to win prizes. These included gift cards and merchandise provided by Metro Transit, Madison Bikes, and several local businesses such as Metcalfe’s Market, TREK Madison East, Machinery Row Bicycles, Monk’s Bar & Grill, and Buck & Honey’s. Organizers noted that this fall's event was the largest so far with more than 9,300 sustainable trips logged during the month.