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Commuter Challenge Kicks Off May 1

Iris Steinberg

Iris Steinberg

Iris Steinberg has been working to improve mobility options and increase commuting choices in Southeast Michigan since 1999. Most recently, she’s led the creation and launch of Commuter Connect, which provides a trip planning and commuter-matching service for residents to improve their commute.

We all have aspects of our jobs that we enjoy more than others whether it’s specific projects, busy periods, or dealing with particularly challenging situations. Likewise, we (hopefully) have our favorites too.

The Commuter Challenge runs throughout May, and it is my very favorite. I have two pretty great kids, but this event will always be my baby. I’m fortunate to have been there from its conception, witnessing its growth and flourishing 16 years later. Like your favorite child (it’s ok, I won’t tell anyone), I feel proud of its accomplishments, am patient with changes (hello, COVID), and cherish favorite memories.
Let me brag for a minute about the Commuter Challenge – accomplishments, highlights, and benefits.

two people talking at commuter connect event display outside

Commuter Challenge Kick Off Celebration in 2023

The Commuter Challenge encourages commuters to take green travel options that save commuters money and reduce the number of miles driven, which improves air quality and reduces congestion. Active commuting like biking and walking, can improve health and well-being. If all of that isn’t enough, some great prizes.

Through this program, I get to see and interact with happy commuters who are experiencing the benefits of their green commute and hear from them year after year. For example, one man met his fitness goals by riding his bike to his bus stop every day. Another woman used the money she saved by taking the bus and bought air pods for the audiobooks that made her daily bus trip even more enjoyable. I have also heard from vanpool riders who meet regularly for lunch, including a couple of now-retired members.

Commuter connect banner next to event display outside

Commuter Challenge Kick Off Celebration in 2023

What will your Commuter Challenge story be? Join us and find out. Find your green commute options using Commuter Connect and record your trips for the chance to win prizes. Join us for the Commuter Challenge Kick Off Celebration on Thursday, May 9 from 11:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m. at Downtown Detroit Cadillac Square. Enjoy free Detroit Water Ice while learning about your green travel options. RSVP now on Facebook or SEMCOG’s event calendar.

The good stuff, 5,093 dollars saved, 41 dollars rewards redeemed, 8,098 miles not driven, 359 gallons gas saved, 0 calories burned, 3.5 tons of C O two prevented, 76,000 points earned

I enjoy looking at the impact of my green commuting – carpooling and working from home. But we know that numbers never tell the whole story. Share your Commuter Challenge story, I look forward to hearing how it goes.

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