Annual commuting challenge runs January 10 – February 10, 2023

ANN ARBOR, MI – The getDowntown Program is pleased to announce that the Conquer the Cold challenge returns January 10 – February 10, 2023. Registration is now open for the annual promotion that aims to show that it isn’t as difficult to get to work without driving as it may seem in the winter months.

Individuals participating in Conquer the Cold can log their trips on the getDowntown challenge website (CommuteAndWin.org) and earn rewards based on their participation. Both commutes and personal trips, such as taking transit to the grocery store, can be logged to earn points in this challenge and commuters throughout the community are encouraged to join the challenge. Through education, outreach, and different challenges, the campaign aims to help commuters get over the potential barriers of changing their patterns in colder weather.

“We’re excited to bring back this winter challenge that downtown Ann Arbor employees and businesses look forward to each year,” said Lilliane Webb, getDowntown Director. “Conquer the Cold provides extra motivation for actions like biking on a mild winter day, choosing public transportation, or arranging to carpool with a colleague.”

Additionally, downtown restaurants and retailers are offering up specials to participants of the challenge to help them stay warm and motivated. The specials as well as a calendar of events, such as walks to downtown led by City of Ann Arbor transportation planners, can be found by visiting getdowntown.org/events/conquer-cold.

Commuters will have until February 19, 2023 to log their trips. Winners will be announced in late February.