5 ways to get around Philly with no car
WHYY’s urban life correspondent Elizabeth Fiedler has a great story today about Philadelphians who choose to live in the city without relying on a car — even after they have kids. The things people do to get around inspired us to ask on Facebook how people make their way to points A, B and beyond.
Add your comments to the discussion. Five of our favorites are collected here.
1. A bicycle built for two
My husband and I have a garage in South Philly where we keep 6-8 bikes in place of a car. We ride our tandem bike most places we go together, probably most notably to Phillies games. When we have items to haul, we attach a trailer to one of our bikes, so when we have the trailer on the tandem we are about 16 feet long (extending beyond the width of most Philly rowhomes). We’ve hauled lumber, mulch, construction supplies, and even tables and chairs for the South Philly Food Co-op.—Leigh Goldenberg
2. Run, Forrest, run!
I worked at the Navy Yard for a year and a half and I ran there. I packed a running backpack with clothes for the day, and kept towels and other toiletries in the shower area lockers. We had a mild winter, so I ran right through it — about 7 miles round trip each day.—Christine Knapp
3. Catch you later at Paine Skate Park, dude
I tend to ride my longboard everywhere I can, and before that I would go skateboarding. Mind you, all of that is in tandem with SEPTA. Years ago I had to go to a meeting but to get around Center City in time I needed to bring my skateboard. So I spent the day running around Center City wearing a full suit while skateboarding.—Larry West
4. Scout’s honor
As long as I have the right bag, I can get anywhere.—Kelly Anne Davis
5. Ring ring!
My husband rides a tricycle he calls his pick up truck…—Sandra O’Connor
And don’t forget the importance of good friends who are always there to help you with your … cat. Here’s a bonus:
Car free for my entire adulthood. Not having a car does necessitate a lot of planning and hauling. I’m always looking to pick up 30 lbs of cat litter when I’m out in a car with someone. —Kathleen Myers
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Thoughtful essays, commentaries, and opinions on current events, ideas, and life in the Philadelphia region.
