UW named a Gold-level Bicycle Friendly University by the League of American Bicyclists
The League of American Bicyclists, the premier grassroots advocacy organization encouraging better bicycling and protecting the rights of people who bike, has honored the University of Washington with a Gold-level Bicycle Friendly University award in recognition of the institution’s achievements in promoting and enabling safe, accessible bicycling on campus.
"What stands out about this round of Bicycle Friendly University awards is their commitment to listening, learning, and improving," said Bill Nesper, executive director of the League of American Bicyclists. "That spirit of progress is helping shape today's students into tomorrow's leaders, equipping them to carry on the work of building a more Bicycle Friendly America."
The Bicycle Friendly University program now includes 204 colleges and universities in 42 states and the District of Columbia, and is part of the League’s Bicycle Friendly America program, which also awards communities and businesses with certifications as part of its mission to make bicycling safe, comfortable, and more accessible for all.
“Earning Gold-level reflects the passion and daily commitment of our students, faculty, and staff who choose to bike, often in challenging weather and through our hilly community” according to Braden Kelley, UW Transportation Services’ Commute Options & Transportation Planning Manager. “Their dedication is what makes this recognition possible. As we look ahead, we’re committed to continuing to improve the biking experience at UW and to reaching Platinum-level in the next certification cycle.”
UW was last awarded as a Gold-level University in 2018. UW Transportation Services encourages bicycling as an easy option for transportation and provides amenities including over 600 secure bike lockers & 15 bike houses as well as bike programming and events like Bike Month, Ride in the Rain Day and a free helmet program (available at the Transportation Services building and at the ASUW bike shop).
As the University continues to improve its campus accessibility by bike, it will have access to a variety of free tools, a library of resources, and technical assistance from the League to become even more welcoming to people who bike. To apply or learn more about the free BFU program, visit the League online at www.bikeleague.org/university.