Talking Car-Free Life in Michigan on MIRS Monday Podcast
The other week I received a message from Samantha Shriber, a political reporter at MIRSnews and host of the MIRS Monday podcast. She asked about my car-free life in Michigan and invited me on the show to discuss both my journey... and challenges.
It's so important to me that our government leaders in Michigan understand the need for safer streets, pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, and equitable transportation for all.
Just because we don't have a robust public transit system doesn't mean we don't want it.
After leaving transit-plentiful New York City and Boston, I never thought I would say I'd be approaching five car-free years in Michigan- ten total- in 2024.
Not only did I think living car-free in my home state would be impossible, I also didn't think the residents of Michigan cared. Oh, they care. After four years, I'm amazed by the advocacy I've witnessed. Back in 2019, I thought I'd be the only car-free person in my circle- today, I'm constantly surrounded by urbanists and environmental advocates who are putting in the work.
Whether it's creating more protected bike lanes, improving our bus system, or just choosing to leave the car at home and walk, Detroit has the potential to be a vibrant, walkable city. Although I'm doing what I can to destigmatize the use of public transportation and encourage walking, there is still a lot of heavy lifting.
We just have to dream it, and do it, together.
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