Residents of Roanoke accept the first Week Without Driving challenge

Roanoke, Virginia – The majority of people travel around in their automobiles, but a group of Roanokers recently started an initiative where they left their keys behind in hopes of altering that.

By encouraging participants to rely only on bicycles, buses, and their own two feet, the inaugural Week Without Driving challenge offered a fresh viewpoint on the transportation obstacles encountered by non-drivers.

It was suggested that participants forgo cars for the full week.

Pedal Safe Roanoke, a local advocacy group, spearheaded the initiative with the goal of raising awareness and fostering empathy for the difficulties that many people face when traveling without a car.

“When people walk, bike, or take public transportation, their mental map of the city can completely change,” Pedal Safe Roanoke’s Ken McLeod said. “If you plan your route properly, something you might consider a long trip to the grocery store could only be a few blocks off a greenway.”

According to WalkScore.com, Roanoke trails behind Blacksburg but is more bike and pedestrian friendly than neighboring communities like Danville and Lynchburg.

Ongoing initiatives, such as the addition of bike lanes on Shenandoah Avenue and Ninth Street Southwest, demonstrate the city’s dedication to enhancing commuter safety for all users.

A $15,000 grant was also given to Pedal Safe Roanoke to increase safety on Ferdinand Avenue. Painted road markings will make it easier for cars and bikes to share the road.

McLeod anticipates that these initiatives will guarantee that all modes of transportation are available.

“Riding a bike to a trailhead requires more than just parking your car there. In our community, you may begin from your doorway and travel anyplace,” he declared.