Virginia Tech designated a Bicycle Friendly University by the League of American Bicyclists
Virginia Tech’s efforts to enhance alternative transportation usage on campus were recently recognized by the League of American Bicyclists, which designated Virginia Tech as a silver level Bicycle Friendly University.
This honor recognizes Virginia Tech’s commitment to advancing and delivering a safe, bicycle-friendly campus for students, employees, and visitors.
Virginia Tech and its Alternative Transportation Department continue to improve infrastructure and conditions for cyclists through a variety of efforts, including installation of more bike racks and operation of the Hokie Bike Hub, where cyclists have access to tools and resources for self–service bike repair and can attend bike-themed workshops and social events. Additionally, the Alternative Transportation Department promotes safe cycling by offering cycling safety courses, hosting events, and providing educational materials throughout the year.
Between July 2018 and July 2019, the Hokie Bike Hub had more than 3,000 visits.
For those without bikes, Virginia Tech partners with Roam NRV to offer bike share available for use by all members of the campus community. Between July 2018 and July 2019, cyclists had taken over 8,300 trips on Roam NRV, biking more than 20,000 miles.
“Virginia Tech is dedicated to boosting usage of alternative transportation modes like cycling and is proud to receive Bicycle Friendly University recognition for the fourth time,” said Nick Quint, transportation network manager.
Virginia Tech is among 208 colleges and universities in the Bicycle Friendly University program, which evaluates applicants’ efforts to promote bicycling in five primary areas: engineering, encouragement, education, enforcement, and evaluation/planning.
The Bicycle Friendly University program provides a roadmap to building a bicycle friendly campus. The application has become a rigorous and educational tool providing a clear incentive for universities to continuously improve.
“Congratulations are in order for Virginia Tech on its inclusion in an elite class of 48 new and renewing Bicycle Friendly Universities nationwide,” said Bill Nesper, executive director of the league. “Just as applying to a college or university requires self-reflection, self-evaluation, and meeting rigorous standards, so too does applying for and attaining Bicycle Friendly University status. By meeting one of the four award levels, universities and colleges demonstrate a commitment to not only fostering academic achievements, but also to developing model environments where people can safely bike and contribute to healthier, more sustainable outcomes.”
