Bicycle Friendly University

University of Wisconsin, Madison| Silver Level

University Highlights: The University of Wisconsin at Madison (UWisc) provides several bicycle cages, free compressed air hoses in multiple locations on campus, porous concrete pads for bike racks at dorms facilitates snowmelt, reducing the need to clear snow manually. Transportation Services staffs bicycle information tables several times a year (Commuter Solutions Week in April, Bike to Work Week organized locally in June, UW Housing’s official Move-in dates at both the Lakeshore and SE dorms, the SE Area block party resource fair in August, and others) at which they educate and encourage cyclists to ride safely. Transportation Services also distributes City of Madison bicycle maps and info packets to everyone who inquires about any "Smart Trip" (pedestrian, bicycle, transit, carpool, personalized route planning assistance). UWisc has capped the number of car parking spaces on campus at 13,000 for all 22,000 faculty and staff and 42,000 students. Generally, car parking spaces/permits are not available to students. Those faculty and staff who are eligible for a car parking permit find it is very expensive ($800-1100/year for 2011; about the same rates as monthly parking in downtown Madison). Conversely, bike parking is free and ubiquitous. Bike Lockers only cost $85/year (space in bike cages are only $65/year); and the Emergency Ride Home program provides up to three cab rides every six months (paid for by UW Transportation Services) for any cycle commuter who needs a car ride home or elsewhere for any emergency. UWisc inventories all bicycle parking stalls on campus (including type and whether existing stalls meet current standards) on an annual basis. University staff also counts the number of bicycles parked at or near racks usually twice a year, to measure bicycle parking demand, whether it is being met, and where added capacity is needed.

Most Compelling Recent Bike Related Accomplishment:
In 2010, the University spent $45,000 on new bike racks, $5,000 to maintain existing racks, and $8,000 on new bike lockers.