A government meeting highlighted a national initiative encouraging residents to refrain from driving themselves for one week, from September 30 to October 6. Participants are invited to utilize alternative transportation methods such as buses, biking, walking, carpooling, or taxis. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by the 30% of Americans who cannot drive and to promote discussions on improving the city’s infrastructure for better mobility and accessibility.

The meeting also celebrated the recent establishment of a smoking area at the Third Street Bus Station, a request made by community members since June 2023. Officials expressed gratitude to Valley Metro leaders and volunteers who advocated for this addition, emphasizing that such amenities should have been included in the original design of the bus station.

Additionally, the meeting recognized the efforts of community advocate Sylvia King and presented the inaugural Bragg Spark Plug Award to Vivian Sanchez Jones for her dedication to enhancing the bus rider experience.

In closing, the meeting addressed the importance of housing legislation, noting recent setbacks in local government powers to combat slum conditions and improve affordable housing, following vetoes by Governor Youngkin. A debrief meeting is scheduled for October 7 to discuss the outcomes of the driving initiative.