Encouraging commuters to experiment with public transportation for a single day, city officials express optimism
Minneapolis, MN - On September 22, 2025, Minneapolis will join over 1,500 cities and more than 40 countries in observing World Car-Free Day. The day is aimed at creating awareness and educating communities about alternatives to driving alone, and this year, the city is taking it a step further with the "Car-Free MSP" initiative.
Led by Move Minneapolis, the event aims to raise the profile and awareness of transit and encourage people to try or rediscover it. Representatives from Metro Transit, the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority, and Minneapolis Public Works will be present to provide information about the express service provided by SouthWest Transit and the growing network of rapid bus lines in downtown Minneapolis.
John Barobs, senior outreach manager with Move Minneapolis, stated that the initiative is not about giving up cars altogether, but encouraging people to try unfamiliar modes of transportation. "We want to show people that transit can be a viable and convenient option for their daily commute," said Barobs.
The event will include hands-on opportunities to learn how to use bike racks affixed to city buses and how to check out and ride shared e-bikes and scooters. A party will take place in Commons Park across from U.S. Bank Stadium from 4 to 6 p.m., featuring "Try It" tours and guides showing the uninitiated how to use light-rail.
In addition to the event, Move Minneapolis is offering a $2,000 bike certificate and other prizes to those who pledge to make one trip by car and replace it with an alternative form of transportation during September. The organization is also offering information about carpooling and $20-a-month parking offered in the city's A, B and C Ramps near Target Center and Target Field.
The growing number of workers returning to their offices in Minneapolis are turning to transit to avoid traffic. Bus-only lanes have been expanded to speed buses along, and the growing network of rapid bus lines in downtown Minneapolis provides faster and frequent all-day service. A new rapid bus line, the E Line, will debut in December, running from Southdale to the University of Minnesota.
Alex Schieferdecker, Minneapolis' bike and pedestrian coordinator, stated that transit in Minneapolis is becoming faster and more reliable. "We've seen a significant increase in the number of people using transit as a means of transportation, and we want to continue to make it a convenient and efficient option for everyone," said Schieferdecker.
The Car-Free MSP campaign is part of Move Minneapolis' larger goal to reduce the number of trips taken by solo car drivers in Minneapolis by 20%. Currently, people driving alone make up 40% of trips that start or end in Minneapolis, according to the latest city data.
In addition to the event, Move Minneapolis is offering a micro transit service providing on-demand point-to-point rides in Minneapolis. The shared bike and scooter program in Minneapolis is also well-used, providing an alternative for short trips around the city.
The initiative encourages those who drive downtown to try non-automotive travel for a day and experience the convenience and efficiency of transit. With the growing number of options available, there's never been a better time to give transit a try.
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