Press Release
For Immediate Release
April 9, 2026
Contact
Lilliane Webb
328 S. Fifth Ave.,
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104
getdowntown.org
734-219-6596
LWebb@TheRide.org
ANN ARBOR, MI – The getDowntown Program has announced that registration is now open for workplaces to join the 2026 Commuter Challenge. Held annually from May 1st – May 31st, the Commuter Challenge encourages commuters across southeast Michigan to try alternatives to driving alone by walking, biking, carpooling, vanpooling, teleworking, and taking the bus to reach their workplaces. The challenge is open to people who work in the City of Ann Arbor, City of Ypsilanti, or Ypsilanti Township.
“Each year, the Commuter Challenge helps workplaces build healthier, more sustainable commuting habits,” said Lilliane Webb, getDowtown Director. “Last year, 644 commuters across 108 workplaces participated in the Commuter Challenge. We’re excited to welcome new and returning workplaces in 2026 and provide teams with free information and incentives to explore sustainable commuting options that work for them.”
Participants can earn prizes by logging commute trips taken by bus, bike, carpool, and other alternatives to driving alone. Prizes include a free scoop of ice cream from Washtenaw Dairy, gift cards to local businesses, and unique Commuter Challenge patches. In addition, several local workplaces will be recognized for achieving high employee participation and awarded a lunch celebration catered by Sweetgreen.
A representative from interested workplaces should complete the short sign-up form on getDowntown.org to register their organization. Registered workplaces will receive support from getDowntown staff to educate and motivate employees throughout the month.
Individuals who want to participate in the Commuter Challenge can create an account at win.getDowntown.org, add their workplace to their profile, and begin logging alternative commutes. A full list of prizes, rules, and commuting resources is available at getDowntown.org.
The Commuter Challenge is organized by the getDowntown Program and the Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (TheRide) in partnership with the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority and the City of Ann Arbor. For up-to-date information on this and other benefits of commuting by alternative modes of transportation, visit getDowntown.org.