5 Reasons Why You Should Ditch Your Car This Summer

We all have to do a lot of moving. Whether going to school, work, or play, we need a way to get there. Sometimes we just hop in our car as a matter of habit instead of thinking of other ways to get to where we need to go. While cars are convenient, they aren't the only way we can get around town! Here are 5 reasons to ditch your car and try out alternative modes of transportation:

1. It will save you money!

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Gas prices have gone down a bit in the past couple weeks, but the cost of gas generally rises in the summertime. When you choose to ride a bike or walk, that mean less miles driven in your car, and less money spent at the pump. Even just replacing one car commute a week with alternative transportation can make a difference. If you make a full commitment to live without a car, you can save thousands on auto loans, insurance, maitenence, and repairs! While living without a car might be impossible in some circumstances, choosing to carpool or rideshare makes a difference too!

2. You'll get to know your community in a unique way!

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When your feet are on the road instead of seperated by metal sheeting and tires, you notice things that you may not have before. You meet people and nod "hello" along your way instead of being in your own little bubble. If you're like me, you'll discover shops, restaurants and parks that were always there, but that you simply didn't notice before.

Jane Jacobs was a promoted becoming familiar with our urban environments. Every year, "Jane's Walks" are done in her honor. Provo is having their own "Jane's Walk" this Saturday! Click here for more info.

There will also be a community "Walk and Talk" on Saturday, May 12th 3:00-4:30. participants will meet at the Community Action Parking lot located at 815 S. Freedom Blvd. This will be great opportunity to get to know the area where the new intermodal transit station will be!

3. There are a lot of people out there to help you along!

City planning and development are becoming more bike and pedestrian friendly. UTA has plans to restructure it's routes so that they will be more accesible and easy-to-use. Also, there are plenty of resources for new "alternative commuters". May 15th is Bike-To-Work-Day and Roll-With-the-Mayor. Click here for more info!

4.  You will be: Fitter. Happier. More productive!

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It can be hard to squeeze in the physical activity we need to stay healthy. Incorporating walking into my day to day routines helped me lead a more active lifestyle. When I walked to work, I just felt better. It gave me time to think wihout distractions from the radio or traffic.  Making a concious effot to use my car less forced me to organize my time better. I grouped tasks and errands into "walkable" and "un-walkable". The time I lost by forgoing a car was more than made-up by wise planning. I felt like I was getting more done, and I was happier while doing it.

If my personal experience isn't enough to convince you, click here for links to scientific studies about the benefits of walking and biking!

5. Walking is fun!