The 2026 Week Without Driving is October 1-8. The national challenge, which asks participants to give up their cars for a week, is meant to help identify barriers in our streets, sidewalks and transit systems by bringing attention to the challenges faced by nondrivers — people with disabilities, older adults, youth and those who can’t afford a car and rely on alternative transportation.
SCBC is working with a coalition of local organizations to support the challenge in Sonoma County. Right now, we need you to contact your local officials to encourage them to participate. Last year 12 leaders across the county took the challenge, and we are working to increase that number this year.
Follow the link to your city to send a message to your mayor and councilmembers (please note that some of these addresses are city clerks who accept correspondence on behalf of councilmembers). The suggested text is included below.
Cloverdale City Council
Cotati City Council
Healdsburg City Council
Petaluma City Council
Rohnert Park City Council
Santa Rosa City Council
Sebastopol City Council
Sonoma City Council
Windsor Town Council
Sonoma County Board of Supervisors
Suggested text:
Dear _________,
I am writing to my elected officials to request that you participate in this year’s Week Without Driving, from October 1 to October 8, 2026.
Imagine trying to get to work, a medical appointment, or the grocery store without a car — when sidewalks are missing, buses are unreliable, and bike lanes are unsafe. For up to one-third of your constituents, this isn’t just a thought experiment, it’s their daily reality.
People with disabilities, older adults youth, and those who can’t afford a car rely on alternative transportation. Yet our infrastructure often prioritizes drivers and leaves others behind.
By committing to a week without driving, Sonoma County leaders can:
- Experience firsthand the challenges faced by non-drivers
- Identify barriers in our streets, sidewalks, and transit systems
- Lead with empathy to design safer, more inclusive communities
Last year, nearly 700 officials across the U.S. participated, and that number included 12 elected officials and educational leaders from the North Bay.
Walk, bike, roll, or ride—but don’t drive. We urge you to join the movement and take this essential step toward a more accessible Sonoma County.
Even if you can’t do a whole week, just one day or one trip will help you experience what those of us who don’t have access to driving go through everyday.
Sincerely,