Editor’s note: This press release was provided by Westchester County Executive George Latimer.

(White Plains, NY) – For the second consecutive year, Westchester County Executive George Latimer is asking that all drivers leave their cars at home on Friday, September 20 in celebration of “Car Free Day” in the Hudson Valley. The event, sponsored by the County Department of Public Works and Transportation’s SMART Commute Program, is designed to encourage alternatives to single occupant driving, such as the use of mass transit, carpooling, biking or walking to your destination.

Latimer said: “While we are all in the habit of getting into our cars to drive to work each day, this Car Free Day, I am asking that you try to find one specific way to celebrate sustainable transportation. Whether you take the bus, ride to work with a colleague, or take a walk to your local deli or coffee shop instead of using your car at lunch time, any action can make a difference.”

Join the SMART Commute team, along with 511NY Rideshare and Lime, for a Car Free Day Celebration at the White Plains TransCenter near the Bee-Line Bus Lanes on Friday, September 20 from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.  Stop by to learn about sustainable transportation options, enjoy free samples, bike rides and raffles.

Heliana Higbie, 511NY Rideshare Regional Program Manager, said: “The 511NY Rideshare Team is thrilled to partner with Westchester County Government. We are grateful for their efforts to make the county more bike, pedestrian and transit accessible. Last September, more than 1,200 Hudson Valley residents left their cars at home or drove them less to celebrate Car Free Day. This year, we are excited to celebrate at the Westchester County Government event.”

The Westchester County Department of Public Works and Transportation is also using Car Free Day to highlight the County’s Smart Commute Program, which provides information to increase the use of mass transit alternatives. The program is comprised of a team of transportation advisors, and is available free of charge as part of Westchester County and New York State’s commitment to reducing congestion on our roadways and improving air quality.

Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Public Works and Transportation Hugh Greechan said: “The Smart Commute team is very excited to bring Car Free Day to White Plains this year.  On an average weekday we have approximately 6,000 Bee-Line riders who start or end their trip at the White Plains Transit Center.  This is a day to celebrate all of our riders who are making a difference and choosing a sustainable mode of transportation.”

Help make Car Free Day 2019 a great success, take the pledge to go car free on 9/20. For Bee-Line Bus information visit www.westchestergov.com/beelinebus or call the Bee-Line customer service center at (914) 813-7777, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Automated information is available 24 hours a day.