BANGOR, Maine (AP) — Mainers who drive to and from work are being encouraged this week to explore alternatives.

The 15th annual Commuter Challenge, or Commute Another Way Week, is intended to get motorists to consider car pooling, biking, walking or taking the bus.

The event is sponsored by GO MAINE, a joint program of the Maine Department of Transportation and the Maine Turnpike Authority.

Dianne Rice, who coordinates the project for the Bangor Area Comprehensive Transportation System, told the Bangor Daily News that 25 area businesses and more than 200 people are expected to participate.

Rice said interest has grown, and what used to be a one-day event has been stretched to a week. She said it’s a way to get the word out that there are options.