Sun Prairie promotes Week Without Driving and sidewalk review
A community walk-and-roll audit will examine accessibility as officials highlight the challenges faced by residents without cars.
Sun Prairie recognized Oct. 1-8, 2026, as Week Without Driving, joining Madison, DeForest, Monona, Waunakee and other Dane County communities.
The regional effort, led by the Greater Madison Metropolitan Planning Organization and Capital Area Regional Planning Commission, asks regular drivers to try alternatives for a trip, a day or the full week. Options include walking, using a wheelchair or other mobility aid, cycling, public transit and shared rides.
Reviewing local accessibility Sun Prairie scheduled a Walk & Roll Audit for Oct. 5 from 1 to 3 p.m., led by AARP Wisconsin. Participants were invited to review sidewalks, crossings and connections to identify barriers for people of different ages and abilities.
Organizers cited a Wisconsin Department of Transportation estimate that 30%-40% of Dane County residents do not drive. The category includes children, older adults, people with disabilities and people who cannot afford or choose not to use a private vehicle.
Resident Laura Pollick accepted a city proclamation Sept. 15 and described how paratransit allows her to visit her mother in Middleton each week. Before that service was available, she said she could make the trip only about once every three months. Advance registration was required for the audit.
