One of the Mid-America Regional Council’s long-running programs underwent a rebranding in late August: RideshareKC is now WAY TO GO, a redesigned program where individuals and employers can find commute solutions that make the most sense for them. The program also features a new trip planner and mobile app that is free and easy to use.
“The rebrand came just in time for the launch of the 15th Annual Green Commute Challenge, Oct. 1-31, 2023,” said Rachel Krause, WAY TO GO program outreach coordinator. “The Green Commute Challenge is a free competition for Kansas City area commuters where they receive rewards for taking sustainable transportation options to work.”
There are many ways to green commute in our region, such as walking, biking, taking transit or carpooling. Throughout October, participants log their green commute trips to earn points and get entered in weekly drawings for prizes from local businesses and makers. At the end of the challenge, prizes will be awarded for categories such as “most green commute trips completed” on both the individual and team levels. This year's individual grand prize is an e-bike courtesy of Elite Cycling.
By participating, individuals and organizations play a role in improving local air quality and become part of a larger community of people interested in sustainable transportation in the region. The first event during the challenge is the E-Bike Petting Zoo from 9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 7 at the Brookside Farmers Market, 6425 Wornall Road, Kansas City, Mo., 64113.
This year’s sponsors of the Green Commute Challenge are Elite Cycling, Bicycle Depot KC, HNTB, Commute with Enterprise, HDR Inc. and Lamp Rynearson. Interested participants can join the challenge through the my.waytogokc.org website. More information about the Green Commute Challenge can be found on the website.
"We believe there are many great alternatives to conventional transportation and the Green Commute Challenge is a terrific opportunity to not only find new ways to get to work, but explore the community we have around us,” said Daniel Rosario, Elite Cycling general manager. “There are many physical and psychological benefits to riding to work, including boosting your mood and self-esteem while improving overall health.”
WAY TO GO will host more events and activities for the Kansas City region, all designed to keep the air clean, reduce congestion and increase job access around the region. Details about the rebranding story can be found on the WAY TO GO website.
