The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has announced that the 2025 Drive Less Connecticut Challenge not only met but exceeded its set goals. This milestone highlights progress in reducing traffic congestion statewide while bringing attention to accessible and eco-friendly transportation options.
A Statewide Effort to Drive Less
Organized by CTrides, the commuter services program of CTDOT, the campaign encouraged residents to reduce car usage between April 22 and May 31. Participants were inspired to explore alternative travel options that are more sustainable and cost-effective, such as biking, carpooling, or taking public transit. According to CTDOT, participants collectively saved over $380,000 in fuel and vehicle maintenance costs thanks to their efforts.
Key Achievements in the 2025 Drive Less Connecticut Challenge:
- Record-breaking participation: More than 1,000 residents and employees recorded at least one alternative travel trip.
- Reduced vehicle mileage: A total of 35,000 trips were logged, saving an estimated 548,080 car miles. Sustainable modes of transportation included Connecticut’s trains, buses, carpooling, biking, and walking.
- Employer involvement: Connecticut employers actively participated by hosting events to promote commuting alternatives, such as teleworking, public transit, and cycling.
- Environmental impact: Meeting the campaign’s trip reduction goal of 35,000 trips enabled the planting of 2,000 trees in partnership with One Tree Planted.
“This year’s Drive Less Connecticut Challenge showed remarkable community engagement and enthusiasm,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Participants demonstrated a tremendous commitment to this challenge by exploring different travel options and reducing traffic congestion across Connecticut.”
A Coordinated Community Effort
The challenge gained momentum through CTDOT’s CTrides program, which executed a robust marketing plan leveraging social media, paid advertisements, and direct community outreach. Participants tracked their travel habits using the CTrides app and website, which also allowed them to enter prize drawings for gift cards and other incentives. Additionally, weekly updates personalized participants’ progress and maintained excitement throughout the event. All prizes were sponsored and distributed by Agile Mile.
By inspiring state-wide participation, the 2025 Drive Less Connecticut Challenge not only demonstrated a collective effort to ease traffic congestion but also established a model for sustainable commuting initiatives moving forward.
Image & Source: The Trucker
