To build attention to the annual international “Car Free Day” that will be held on Sept. 22 and to encourage the use of alternate modes of transportation, the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) will return its “Bicycle Swag Bag Contest” from Sunday, Aug. 22, through Sunday, Sept. 26. During the event, bike riders can submit a picture of themselves riding along a bike path or trail in Montgomery County to be entered into a weekly drawing.
The Swag Bag Contest requires participants to submit photos of themselves and their bikes at any bike path, trail entrance sign or anywhere along the path. Entrants need to post a photo and tag @mococommuter on Twitter or Instagram, along with the hashtag #MoCoBikes, to be entered into that week's drawing for a prize. Entrants also can email a photo to commuter.services@montgomercountymd.gov.
Prize drawings will be held on Monday mornings following each week and winners will be notified via direct message on their Twitter or Instagram account or via email (if an email entry was submitted). A consent form will be sent and a prize will be mailed to the address provided. By entering, participants grant MCDOT permission to publish photos on its social media accounts.
“This is a great way to get residents thinking about alternative transportation options,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “We have one of the nation’s most aggressive climate action plans and programs such as this one help move us in the right direction. I want to encourage residents to try bicycling for commuting, exercise and to get around Montgomery County.”
Participants must be at least 18 years old, Montgomery County residents or employees of a company located in the County. Only one photo entry per person is allowed weekly.
"Using more sustainable ways to get around helps reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions is a way for our residents to get more exercise, helping us become a healthier community in many ways" said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. "This is a fun way to encourage people go on a bike ride."
The contest leads up to Car Free Day, a worldwide event that encourages greener methods of travel, including biking. Residents can take the Car Free Day pledge online by Sept. 22. Separate from the swag bag contest, everyone who takes the car fee pledge will be entered for a chance to win raffle prizes.
When appropriate, bike riders are asked to practice safe social distancing and wear face coverings. Helmets should always be worn while riding.
