The League of American Bicyclists has recognized the University of Nevada, Reno and the entire region for being bike friendly. Reno Public Radio’s Julia Ritchey reports.
This is the first time UNR has gotten this recognition, joining 127 other colleges and universities across the U.S.
Amy Fitch is a lecturer and head of the Campus Bicycle Committee, which helped spearhead the nomination.
“I think it’s a great recognition of the work that we’ve done so far, and it’s also a sign that there’s more work to do, there’s still room for us to improve and achieve a higher designation in the future.”
Fitch’s committee conducted a survey identifying obstacles to bike riding around UNR. They also lobbied for and got bike racks on campus escort vehicles. And they’ve only just scratched the surface.
“One of the things we’re working on is facilities improvement, making sure we have safe routes for bikes through campus and helping separate bicyclists from pedestrians.”
About 700 people have registered their bikes with UNR’s Parking Services, but Fitch estimates the number of bike commuters exceeds 1,000.
The League of American Bicyclists also recognized Reno, Sparks and Washoe County for its bike policies, a designation they first received in 2011.