2026 Week Without Driving

The 2026 Week Without Driving Challenge took place October 1–8. The Greater Madison MPO, communities and local organizations hosted events across the area to help people try getting around without driving—something an estimated 30–40% of Dane County residents do every day.

The challenge encouraged everyone, especially decision-makers, to learn about the challenges non-drivers face and think about how we can make it easier for everyone to get where they need to go.

Highlights from the Week

Walk & Roll Audits

AARP Wisconsin, local decision-makers and community advocates came together for two walk and roll audits during Week Without Driving. 

Participants looked at sidewalks, street crossings, bus stops and traffic conditions to better understand what each area is like to navigate without driving.

  • Walk and roll audit participants gather on a sidewalk near an intersection to discuss walking conditions.

    Sun Prairie Walk & Roll Audit

    Hosted by AARP Wisconsin, with support from the Greater Madison MPO and the City of Sun Prairie.

  • Walk and roll audit participants navigate around a “Sidewalk Closed” sign, with some walking on the grass beside the sidewalk.

    Madison Walk & Roll Audit

    Hosted by AARP Wisconsin, with support from the Greater Madison MPO and the City of Madison.

  • Community members gather at Sequoya Library for a discussion of Transportation and the Shape of Cities.

    District 11 Book Club with Author Christof Spieler

    Leading up to Week Without Driving, Madison Alder Bill Tishler and author Christof Spieler hosted a community discussion of Transportation and the Shape of Cities. 

    The conversation explored how transportation shapes cities, including Madison's changing transportation network.

    Co-sponsored by 1000 Friends of Wisconsin.

  • Middleton seniors ride a Metro Transit bus and talk with staff during a Learn & Ride event.

    Metro Transit Learn & Ride for Middleton Seniors

    Middleton seniors joined Metro Transit staff and Alder Mark Opitz for a group bus ride to learn the basics of riding Metro Transit.

    Hosted by the City of Middleton, Metro Transit, Middleton Senior Center and RoundTrip.

  • Krause Family Band Concert for Week Without Driving

    A concert by the Krause Family Band wrapped up Week Without Driving in downtown Middleton. Community members were encouraged to walk, roll, bike or take the bus to enjoy the music.

    Organized by the City of Middleton.

In the News


Thank You to Our Communities & Partners

Thank you to the communities and organizations that helped bring Week Without Driving to the Greater Madison area.

Communities & Government Agencies

  • Capital Area Regional Planning Commission
  • City of Fitchburg
  • City of Madison
  • City of Middleton
  • City of Monona
  • City of Sun Prairie
  • City of Verona
  • Greater Madison MPO
  • Village of DeForest 
  • Village of Oregon
  • Village of Waunakee 

Organizations & Universities

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