USF Cougar Cyclism Bike-Share Program
giant_simple.jpgFrom Washington, DC to Fresno, CA, colleges and universities across the country intent on getting “greener” are expanding or launching new bike-share programs to address concerns about the environment, fuel, parking congestion/costs and wellness.
 
Riding the global wave of interest in alternative transportation, the University of Sioux Falls is launching the Cougar Cyclism Bike-Share Program for students and employees.  On EARTH DAY (April 22, 2009), the USF Bike-Share Program was started with 6 Giant Simple Single Cruisers™ —available on a first-come, first-serve basis.  These bikes are equipped with locks and a removable rack/basket and a helmet so that the participant has everything they need for a bicycle commute/ride.  The goals are to reduce traffic/parking congestion on and around campus, reduce fuel consumption, and promote fitness and an appreciation for the outdoors.

This faculty and student sponsored program is modeled after similar efforts at other colleges/universities around the world.  Bike-share programs are not new creations.  They were first developed in Europe in the 1960’s from a need to protect the environment through the use of sustainable transportation; the same purpose as they serve today.  However, bike-share programs fulfill a second purpose by contributing to the participant’s well-being by increasing mobility and leisure activity, improving health, as well as offering alternatives for short distance trips. 

The concept of the Cougar Cyclism Bike-Share Program is quite simple; bikes are loaned, free of charge, to members of the University community.  A user applies to become a member, completes a registration form, agrees to the terms and conditions of use, is issued a membership card and can borrow a bike-share bike.  It’s that simple and elegant.  (See Program Guidelines)


The USF campus is uniquely situated between municipal bicycling routes, some of which that have been most recently marked with “Share the Road” sharrows and signage.  Bike routes along 22nd Street and Summit Avenue intersect at the northeast corner of the USF Campus, providing easy access to municipal on-street bike routes (approximately 35 miles) and the bike trail system (approximately 22 miles).