FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 26th, 2024
MEDIA CONTACTS: Umberto Mignardi, Kevin Higgins, Danielle Benjamin, Michael Anderson (516) 869-7794
press@northhempsteadny.gov
North Hempstead Encourages Residents to Take Part in Car Free Day Long Island
North Hempstead, NY – The 12th anniversary of Car Free Day Long Island takes place from Monday, September 16, 2024, through Sunday, September 22, 2024. The town’s participation in this week-long global initiative is part of North Hempstead’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. Last year, 4,288 Long Islanders pledged to be car-free or car-lite, resulting in the avoidance of 59,536 miles of driving and 92 tons of CO2 emissions.
In recent years, the town has provided information and infrastructure to make walking, biking, and transit more accessible. Since 2021, North Hempstead has partnered with PedalShare for a bike share program, with bike stations located at Town Dock, Manorhaven Beach Park, and the Port Washington Long Island Railroad Station. This eco-friendly program runs at no cost to taxpayers. The town also created 5, 10, and 15-minute “shop, dine & stroll” routes to help residents better navigate North Hempstead by foot.
“Going car-free for a few days might seem daunting, but it makes a real difference in the environment when we all join together,” Supervisor Jennifer DeSena said. “Honestly, I think a nice walk or bike to and from work can make for a unique, more enjoyable commute. We live in a gorgeous town, and I hope this week allows us to take a step back and appreciate it more.”
Town officials hope Car Free Day will inspire residents to try out more sustainable modes of travel than single-occupancy vehicles. In 2022, North Hempstead employees earned the gold award for the highest number of pledges of any town on Long Island. This year, the town encourages more residents to participate to make an even larger impact.
To take part in Car Free Day, pledge to be car-free or car-lite between Monday, September 16, 2024, and Sunday, September 22, 2024, by filling out the pledge form on www.CarFreeDayLI.com. Those who take the pledge will automatically be entered for a chance to win great prizes, like new bikes or discounts on public transportation. More information on the Car Free Day program can be found at northhempsteadny.gov/climateeducation.