Student government has been in talks and negotiations for the development of a bike share program since 2012, which would boost the mobility of students all across campus. A relatively new concept to the state of Oregon, the University of Oregon will be the second institution to implement a system where students can periodically rent bikes, behind the city of Roseburg.
The ASUO Senate voted to dedicate $199,000 to the bike program, which was funded through the Over Realized Committee. Those funds will be enough to provide four bike share stations and 40 bikes.
“Bike share at the UO is an initiative of the Outdoor Program and more specifically, the bike program. The ASUO has continued to be an active part of the committees and conversations surrounding bike share and we look forward to the launch,” said ASUO Senate president Amy Jones.
The bike share program will be open to the public, but students will receive a discounted rate.
“This allows the bikes to be available to be used by as many people as possible throughout the day,” Jones said.
Junior history major Brian Sanders agrees that it could be successful at the University, but expressed concern about the usual waves of sickness that hit students, especially during winter term.
“It sounds like a great idea. The only concern I would have is if multiple people are handling a bike a day and it’s not being cleaned. It might spread disease,” Sanders said.
Centered around campus, the 40 bikes will be securely locked into the total of four bike share stations — the locations have yet to be determined — and usually removable parts like the seat will be locked into place.
On top of having a secure place to leave the bike, they will be routinely repaired should the brakes need replacing or a tire goes flat.
“Bicycling is a very enjoyable activity if your bike works, like driving a car,” Orr said.
Come fall term, students at the UO will find the four stations around campus where they can swipe their credit, debit or membership card and get temporary access to a bike.
“Bike share is an inexpensive way to use a bike and doesn’t have all of the barriers that come with bike ownership,” Orr said. She wants the bike share to help improve upon the reputation Oregon, as well as the University has for being green and innovative.
Pricing and length of rentals have not been determined, but soon the bike program will release more specific information via a press release.
Those looking to sample bike the program can stop by the Outdoor Program on 18th Avenue and University Street for a test run. The program is also looking for a name. Ideas can be submitted to bikes@uoregon.edu or in person at the Outdoor Program.