King County Metro Transit is bringing its popular “In Motion” program to five Seattle-area neighborhoods this summer to help residents increase their use of travel options, such as walking, cycling, riding the bus or water taxi, and sharing rides.

Program participants receive detailed travel information and earn rewards when they reduce their driving over a set period of time.

This summer, In Motion programs are taking place in: Georgetown; South Park; Squire Park on First Hill; White Center; and West Seattle. The first four are already under way, and the West Seattle program begins July 8. Most of these areas are affected by construction activities related to the Alaska Way Viaduct project. In Motion can help residents and employees in the affected areas learn more about the best ways to get around and possibly find new connections.

People who pledge to drive less can earn rewards that include free ride tickets for Metro and Sound Transit, and items, discounts, and gift cards donated by local businesses. Most of the programs starting this summer continue through September and October. Local partners are helping get the word out, and a list of participating businesses can be found on the In Motion website.

More than 20,000 households and employees in these five areas are being contacted via an In Motion mailer, through their employers, or at community events about the different options that emphasize the health, cost-savings, and community benefits of driving less.

The mailing features a neighborhood map showing bus routes throughout each area, and destinations that are reachable by a short bike ride or walk.

Residents can register as participants to receive more information either online, or by calling the program hotline.

Over the past seven years, Metro’s grant-funded In Motion program has reached residents in more than 21 King County neighborhoods. Overall, Metro estimates program participants have reduced more than 1.7 million miles of driving, 84,000 gallons of gas use, and the production of 835 tons of CO2 emissions.