Week Without Driving PGH -

Whether we live in suburban towns or city neighborhoods, everyone in Allegheny County deserves safe, reliable, dignified access to the places we need to go. Across the county, 30% of the population does not drive a car.

The Week Without Driving is a nationwide movement to link the needs of disabled individuals and people of all ages with environmental movements and accessible community planning. Together, we will illustrate challenges and opportunities for non-drivers and call for change that improves mobility for all.

HOw Does The Challenge Work?

Every Trip Counts

You can get around however you want, but the challenge is not to drive yourself in any car. This applies to all your activities — not just your work commute. If you normally transport other family members or friends, it applies to those trips too.

Asking or Paying for Rides

You can ask someone else to drive you, but make a note of how much you “owe” this person in their time, and if you felt obligated to support them in other ways (ie, doing all the dishes). You can ride hail or taxis if they exist where you need to go, but again, think about how the cost could impact your decision to take this trip if this was regularly your only option.

Who Has Choices, What Are Your Choices?

This isn’t a disability simulation or a test of how easily you can find alternatives. We know that it is far easier to give up your keys if you can afford to live in a walkable area well served by transit, or can outsource your driving and other transport and delivery needs to other people.

It’s Okay to Drive – But Reflect What That Means for Nondrivers

Having to drive during the challenge does not signify failure. Sometimes the best reflection comes when someone participating in the challenge has to drive. The point is to consider how someone without that option would have coped, and what choices they might have made.

Pledge to participate in the Week Without Driving – as an individual, elected official, or co-sponsoring organization. Amplify your story. Build community. Take action.

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Share your story & speak up for change

a woman with glasses and grey curly hair on the bus

The first step to improving access is sharing your story. Join the community of non-drivers and supporters and share what better mobility options would mean for you:

About Week Without Driving PGH

Whether due to disability, age, or income – non-drivers come from all walks of life. The Week Without Driving was developed by disability advocates in Washington state and is now a national initiative, led by America Walks and the National Campaign for Transit Justice.

Locally, we’re proud to join this movement to raise awareness for greater mobility needs in every community. With Pittsburgh Regional Transit’s diminished service, crumbling sidewalks, disconnected bike lanes, and insufficient ACCESS services, the lack of investment in safe and accessible mobility options for non-drivers leaves too many residents stranded and struggling to access basic needs.

Week Without Driving PGH is hosted locally by Pittsburghers for Public Transit, Access Mob Pittsburgh, BikePGH, and AARP Pittsburgh. It is also supported by the long list of sponsors below.

You can invite your Local and Allegheny County elected officials to endorse the Week Without Driving PGH by sending them this email.