SIUE Bike Share Program Streamlined and Readied for Spring
As Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Bike Share Program pedals to its seventh year of operation, it has made modifications and added features to better serve the University community and the environment.
“When classes resume on Monday, March 13, the University community will be able to check out bicycles through Campus Recreation’s Student Fitness Center Equipment Issue,” said Dave Hagedorn, Campus Recreation assistant director. “Students will be able to check out a bicycle and use it the same day.”
The change is a result of Campus Recreation now overseeing the program. “This is a more streamlined process,” said Keith Becherer, Campus Recreation director. “It makes sense for us to use our check-out procedures with bicycles, as we do with our other equipment.”
Those who pay student fees are eligible for the free service, as well as members of SIUE’s Student Fitness Center, said Hagedorn. The Bike Share hours of operation are those of the Fitness Center.
Another new feature of the Bike Share Program is the availability of helmets. “We have helmets for sale through our Pro Shop,” said Hagedorn.
The University has also contracted with Bike Surgeon Outpost of Edwardsville to routinely service the bicycles, he added.
“Research shows the benefits of being active outside,” said Hagedorn, who periodically commutes to work on his bicycle. “We want to increase the value of outside exercise, because recreation is what we’re all about – inside and out.”
“We also provide users, especially our international students and guests, with viable transportation to get around campus and throughout the community,” he added. “The environmental benefits that the Bike Share program provides are impactful and important as well.”
The SIUE Bike Share Program began on April 22, 2010, as part of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day.
Photo: Andy Gibbs, (foreground) Bike Surgeon Outpost of Edwardsville employee, completes the bike’s safety inspection as Dave Hagedorn, Campus Recreation assistant director, looks on.
