Up to a third of Americans do not drive or have access to a ride. This may be by choice, by economic constraints, or because they cannot drive. They still need to get around. 

Week Without Driving is a national initiative with Washington roots. It started in 2021 when Disability Rights Washington sought to challenge drivers to understand what it was like to get around depending on others to transport you. 

This year, Week Without Driving corresponds with Community Transit's Ride Free Week (not by accident!) - Oct. 1-8. Community Transit has a history of participating and promoting Week Without Driving as a way for drivers, and others, to try transit, see how it can work for them, and understand how someone who relies on public transportation gets around. We are also open to suggestions on how to improve our service. 

CT CEO Ric Ilgenfritz is a frequent transit user who often combines riding his bike with transit. As the leader of Snohomish County's largest transit provider, Ric believes it is important to understand the service our agency provides. He, and all our staff, listen to what riders say and incorporate changes into our schedules, routing, onboard amenities, and other ways. The agency recently launched a bus stop program to assess our bus stops and find ways to improve them each year by providing better sidewalk access, seating, shelters, and signage. 

If you're in Snohomish County and you don't typically use transit, try it out for free through Oct. 8. Explore the many shopping, dining, or recreational activities in our county, or visit a friend. Use our Plan My Trip tool to help you or call Customer Care at 425-353-RIDE (7433). 

Free rides are available only on Community Transit to celebrate our 50th anniversary, which falls on Oct. 4. If you transfer to another transit service, be prepared to pay regular fare.  

Let us know what you think!