According to Metro Transit, the average commuter emits 2.6 tons of greenhouse gases annually just driving to work.  The World Carfree Network is an umbrella organization that works worldwide to provide people with alternatives to single vehicles by supporting outreach programs and education. Combined with our local transit information and the coupons in our books, you can celebrate Carfree Day and make a lifetime habit change. One of the best Carfree Network programs is the UK based Autoholics Anonymous (open to all), which has a twelve step program and this message:

"Welcome. We are glad you have made it here. You or a loved one has succumbed to the seemingly warm embrace of the automobile, only to find that you cannot live without it. It's okay. The signs were slow in coming. First, you drove to work. Then you took the kids to school instead of putting them on the school bus. Do you drive to the gym? You are a car addict."

Start with step one tomorrow.

Need more? We have a Travel Diary in the 2009 edition, look for it on our website soon. The following information and coupons can be found in the 2009 Blue Sky Guide. Start with a free New Rider Packet with customized bus and train schedules for your route.

Share a Ride:
GoLoco.org lets you create private carpool groups from your existing networks and links with Facebook. Hey, are you our fan on Facebook yet?

Metro Transit also runs a rideshare and vanpool program.

HOURCAR lets you reserve cars by the hour and pay only as long as you need them.

Walk:
Download walking maps for Twin Cities neighborhoods from Bike Walk Twin Cities.

Google Pedometer lets you gauge the distance.

Take Transit:
Reward yourself with a book, podcast, or Sudoku you've been meaning to get to. 

The blog Bus Tales has stories submitted by readers of bus riding encounters with local celebrities, weird overheard conversations, and friendships formed.

Google Transit links with Metro information on Google maps, similar to Metro's Trip Planner.

Biking:
For a blog and resources on walking and biking try the Twin Cities Streets for People or visit the Minnesota Department of Transportation for a guide to hand signals and beginner's tips for commuting.

Metro's free Bike2Benefits program will send you a free reflective ankle strap and personalized biking map.

Search our directory for bike shop coupons.