The getDowntown Program congratulated all those who took part in the Conquer the Cold challenge. The annual campaign engaged 214 participants who demonstrated that it is possible to get around without driving alone during the winter months, according to the Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority's news release.

Between Jan. 10 and Feb. 10, 2023, participants recorded 6,430 trips while covering a distance greater than traveling around the earth’s equator 2.5 times. 

“We experienced all types of winter weather from clear skies and sun to rain and blizzards during the challenge,” said Lilliane Webb, getDowntown Director. “Participants showed their adaptiveness to the coldest months of the year by leaving cars parked and finding other ways to travel to local destinations. Their enthusiastic dedication to alternative transportation was inspiring and we hope this challenge helped kick start a new way of commuting for individuals.” 

Teleworking and carpool trips contributed the most to the total distance reported by participants. These alternative transportation options provide the potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions when used as a substitute for driving alone. According to estimations from the challenge website, participants saved 13 times more fuel and greenhouse gases than they burned or produced during the challenge.