Press Release
For Immediate Release
February 23, 2026
Contact
Lilliane Webb
328 S. Fifth Ave.,
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104
getdowntown.org
734-219-6596
LWebb@TheRide.org
ANN ARBOR, MI – The getDowntown Program is pleased to announce that 379 people participated in this year’s Conquer the Cold challenge, choosing to walk, roll, bike, carpool, and ride public transit throughout the winter season.
The Conquer the Cold challenge ran January 12 – February 12. During this time, participants recorded 13,336 trips, traveling a total of 47,148 miles without driving alone. By opting for alternative transportation, participants avoided using an estimated 3,681 gallons of gas, helping save money while reducing CO2 emissions.
“Each year, we’re inspired by the perseverance and commitment of our community members,” said Lilliane Webb, getDowntown Director. “This year, we’ve had an especially tough winter but even during the coldest of weeks, participants demonstrated that sustainable transportation can be practical, comfortable, and rewarding.”
Throughout the challenge, participants had access to educational resources, social meetups, and incentives to support their winter commuting goals. Top finishers earned prizes from Bivouac Ann Arbor, along with other winter-themed prizes for reaching trip milestones. Participants additionally connected online through social media challenges on the getDowntown Instagram and Facebook, sharing creative snapshots of their winter trips and how they embraced the cold.
The momentum continues this spring with upcoming events including the Commuter Challenge and Bike to Wherever Day in May.