Credit: James Short.
For many in Montgomery County—and across the U.S.—driving is not a given. Nearly a third of Americans, including people with disabilities, seniors, young people, and those who can’t afford a car or gas, rely on walking, rolling, public transit, or asking for rides every day.
To help residents understand these experiences firsthand, Montgomery County is joining the Week Without Driving initiative. The program encourages people who usually drive to go a full week without using a car themselves and reflect on the challenges nondrivers face.
What Participants Can Expect
The challenge applies to all trips—work, errands, or transporting family and friends. Participants are encouraged to:
The goal isn’t to simulate disability or test how resourceful you are. Organizers note that giving up driving is easier if you live in a walkable area with good transit or have the means to outsource transportation and deliveries. Even needing to drive during the challenge isn’t considered failure—it can offer insight into what options someone without a car might have.
A Growing Movement
Week Without Driving began in Washington State in 2021 with Anna Zivarts, Director of the Disability Mobility Initiative at Disability Rights Washington. It went national in 2023 with support from America Walks, involving more than 140 groups in 41 states and D.C. By 2024, participation had grown to over 520 groups nationwide.
Montgomery County’s involvement invites residents to step away from the driver’s seat for a week, experience the realities of nondrivers, and join the conversation about creating more accessible and inclusive communities.
Whether you walk, roll, ride, or ask for help, the experience is about understanding the choices and challenges that millions face every day—and sharing those insights with your neighbors.
Are you ready to take the challenge?
