Bicycle Friendly University

University of Arizona, Tucson| Silver Level

University Highlights: Cyclists at the University of Arizona enjoy a complete network of small roadways and separated pathways, ample parking options, flat terrain, and the mild climate that Tucson offers. The University sits at the convergence of two of the most heavily used bicycle commuting routes in the region, making access to campus safe and convenient. The University’s bike program, which employs five full-time dedicated staff and around 10 students on a part-time basis, plans, implements operates, and enforces an array of bicycle policies and programs. For example, the University of Arizona Police Department focuses on bicycle education and enforcement at the onset of a new term and work with the local Bicycle Ambassadors to implement safety campaigns. Typically, the department will conduct one month of education, followed up by one month of targeted enforcement. If citations are handed out, the bicyclist is given the option to take a safety course as a diversion program. This enforcement effort also includes motor vehicle violations that pose a particular threat to bicyclists and pedestrians. Cat Wheels Bike Share is another great example of how a service provided to students and staff by the University of Arizona. The 25 bicycles are dispersed through parking garages on campus where garage attendants facilitate the checking-out process. The bikes are available on a short-term basis at no charge to the user. The University also participates in a Travel Reduction Program with the purpose of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles. The program features a Guaranteed Ride Home voucher for employees, and has an interactive website where commuters can log their bicycle trips, sign up for a Bike Buddy program, or participate in a commuter challenge raffle.

Most Compelling Recent Bike Related Accomplishment:
In 2010, Parking & Transportation Services launched a permanent bicycle valet station in the center of campus to serve the Student Union and surrounding buildings. The valet service is staffed by two student employees from 8:00am-6:00pm, Monday-Friday and the service is currently provided free-of-charge to students, staff, residents, and visitors. The bicycle valet service provides a short term and secure bicycle parking option in an area where bike racks are often congested and a high demand exists for the service.

Most Compelling Fact: According to a recent report, 15 percent of the commuting population at the University bicycles to campus on occasion.