When it comes to alternative modes of commuting, route planning is a crucial aspect of success. Planning ahead will help you save time while commuting, ensure you are on the best possible route, and set expectations for your commute. The best path for a car is not always the best for walking or bicycling.

A good bicyclist loves to be prepared. Bicycling comes with different challenges and needs than driving, so it helps to have a few things on hand that you might need. Nobody wants to get stuck on the road, caught in the rain, or arrive to work unprepared. Luckily, the solution is easy! Carry these things so you are always ready to go:

The statistics are worth a challenge: in Memphis, over 80% of commuters drive alone to work; only 10.7% carpool and just under 2% take mass transit. As we work together to change these statistics, we think a little fun is in order! That’s why we are bringing back our annual Commute Challenge in May.

We had to take a three-year pause, thanks to those pesky pandemic restrictions, just when we were on a roll (no pun intended!). In 2019, over 300 people from 50 companies joined the Commute Challenge, our best Challenge ever. This May, we are excited to ask all commuters to once again explore new ways of getting around Memphis.

Carpooling has been around for decades. Sharing the ride was once quite popular; in the 1970s, 18% of commuters rode together. But according to the U.S. Census, carpooling has declined every decade since 1980 when carpooling peaked at 19.7%. In Memphis, currently just over 10% of commuters take advantage of a carpool. Yet the benefits of sharing the ride are just as compelling today as they were 43 years ago. In fact, considering the increase of both population and pollution, carpooling stands out as an easy and effective way to decrease traffic (and the corresponding headaches), save money, help the environment, and enjoy the ride.

Memphis is a wonderful city for walking and biking, with a growing network of bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly routes. While you will want to take the weather into account, you’ll find many days of the year to be perfect for enjoying the outdoors as you pedal or stroll your way to work (picking up the pace if you are running late, of course!). Exercise before work sets you up for a productive day, and time in nature is a delightful way to unwind on your way home.

Commute Options, at Innovate Memphis, is excited to support the new partnership between MATA and Shelby County Schools, as they distribute free transit passes to 3,000 students!