The Green Commute Challenge is a month-long competition that encourages residents and employers across the Kansas City region to explore transportation options that reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and save money. Imagine the wonders that could do for your daily commute — that’s what the Green Commute Challenge is all about!
How it works
WAY TO GO promotes sustainable transportation resources through transit partnerships and a free carpool matching app (available via desktop and mobile). The program strives to fill in the gaps between points A and B and provide people with affordable options.
The Green Commute Challenge is a fun way for people to save money on gas while cutting tons of carbon emissions. Participants record green trips using the free WAY TO GO app to earn points, compete for prizes provided by local businesses and discover new ways to get around the region. Participants can also meet like-minded people at community events, made possible by our sponsors.
A green commute is a trip to and from university/college or work and business-related trips using sustainable transportation. Points can be earned for the following green modes:
- Carpooling/vanpooling
- Biking
- Walking/rolling
- Scooting
- Taking the bus
- Riding the streetcar
“The goal is to introduce new ways to get around that are better for the environment. The fewer people driving alone in their cars, the less traffic on our roads and the better air quality for our region,” said Lynelle Haugabrook, WAY TO GO program coordinator.
A challenge with a purpose
Since 2008, WAY TO GO has coordinated the annual Green Commute Challenge and more than 7,000 participants from 100+ major organizations and employers across the Kansas City metro region have supported the vision.
“WAY TO GO envisions a region where green commutes are the best way for people to get to where they need to go. In this future, transportation options are affordable, accessible, build community health and support economic opportunity,” said Haugabrook.
A challenge with a purpose
Step outside your comfort zone and give green a try! We challenge you to make it fun by recording points and attending the social events.
The Green Commute Challenge is open to people and employers who live/work within Johnson, Leavenworth, Miami, Platte and Wyandotte counties in Kansas and Cass, Clay, Jackson and Ray counties in Missouri. Participants must be a minimum of 18 years old.
Ready to participate in the 2026 Green Commute Challenge?
Sign up
Public registration opens Tuesday, Sept. 8. You can sign up your employer as a team now!
Grow your team
Help spread the word about the Green Commute Challenge! Download the partner toolkit for printable posters, social media posts, graphics and more.
Support
The Green Commute Challenge wouldn’t be possible without support from our sponsors and prize partners. We are grateful to the following organizations for their 2026 support: Commute with Enterprise, HNTB, OverBoard Coffee, Urban Hikes, Betty Rae’s Ice Cream, Penny’s in the Village, Elite Cycling, BikeShare KC, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, Screenland Armour, Chicken N Pickle, Broadway Roasting Company and more.
If air quality and transportation are topics your employer cares about, feel free to share the GCC sponsorship invitation with them.
