Hendersonville – As the City of Hendersonville gears up for its annual Strive Not to Drive Week, local businesses are preparing to welcome participants with a unique Business Passport Promotion. Kicking off on May 16 and running through May 24, 2025, this initiative encourages residents and visitors to explore downtown without relying on cars.
Encouraging Car-Free Travel
The Strive Not to Drive Week is designed to promote sustainable transportation options such as walking, biking, and public transit. Jamie Carpenter, from the City of Hendersonville’s Community Development – Downtown Division, explained that the initiative aims to enhance accessibility in the downtown area. “Strive Not to Drive is a regional effort to encourage people to use transit, bike, walk, or carpool to reach their destinations,” Carpenter stated.
Participants can collect stamps in a special Downtown Passport by visiting participating businesses on foot or by bike. At the end of the week, completed passports can be entered into a raffle for Downtown Dollars gift certificates, which can be redeemed at various local shops and restaurants. “Accessibility to businesses through walking and biking is important to the overall vibrancy of a downtown,” Carpenter noted, expressing optimism about the upcoming Ecusta Trail’s impact on local commerce.
The promotion includes a variety of events throughout the week. On May 16, a Social Spin Bike Ride will commence at Trailside Brewing at 6:30 PM, inviting families and individuals alike to join in a community ride. The following day, May 17, features a Senior Wellness Day at the Hendersonville Farmers Market from 8 AM to 1 PM, where attendees can learn about local transit options and participate in walk-audit training sessions.
Community Engagement and Local Business Support
Carpenter emphasized the importance of engaging local businesses with the cycling community. “We believe the increase in bike and pedestrian activity thanks to the trail will support our downtown’s overall economic vibrancy,” she said. This week serves as a launchpad for businesses to prepare for increased customer traffic from those who choose alternative modes of transportation.
Additional events include the Ride of Silence on May 21 at 7 PM, which will take participants on a 3.3-mile route through downtown Hendersonville, starting at 201 S Main St. The week will conclude with a guided community hike in Jackson Park on May 23 at 9 AM.
Carpenter encouraged residents to check out StriveBeyond.org for a complete list of events and activities planned for the week. “You’ll also be able to get a stamp at the Farmers Market,” she added, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the city and local partners.
The Strive Not to Drive initiative has been a staple in promoting sustainable transportation since the 1980s, supported by Go Mountain Commuting through the French Broad River MPO and Land of Sky Regional Council. This year’s events aim not only to promote car-free travel but also to strengthen community ties and support local businesses.
In summary, Strive Not to Drive Week offers an engaging opportunity for residents and visitors to explore Hendersonville while supporting local commerce. With various activities planned throughout the week, participants are encouraged to embrace alternative transportation methods and enjoy all that downtown has to offer.