The University of Washington was recently named a Gold level Bicycle Friendly University by the League of American Bicyclists, putting UW among just 12 schools nationwide to earn a Gold or Platinum rating.
"This is a conversation that is happening at campuses and in communities across the U.S. and the University of Washington is proud to be taking the lead," UW Transportation Services Director Josh Kavanagh said.
The award recognizes many campus programs designed to encourage cycling at UW, such as the 5,700 bike parking spaces on campus - including more than 1,500 high-security parking spaces, campus bike repair stations, and improvements to the Burke-Gilman Trail. Other programs include a free bicycle valet program for home football games, events such as the upcoming Ride in the Rain Challenge, and the newly-launched Pronto! Cycle Share system which includes stations on campus.
"We are proud to assist an ever-increasing number of students, staff, and faculty to get to – and around – campus on bicycles," UW President Michael K. Young said. "This award is a reflection of the hard work and strong coordination of staff all over campus. We’re proud to have earned Gold and excited about future improvements in the works. The best is yet to come!"
UW had previously been named Silver level by the League of American Bicyclists in 2012.