The League of American Bicyclists recognized the University of Central Arkansas with a bronze Bicycle Friendly UniversitySM (BFUSM) award, joining more than 180 visionary colleges and universities from across the country. The announcement was made Wednesday.
With the announcement of 46 new and renewing BFUs today, UCA joins a cutting-edge group of colleges and universities across the United States that are transforming their campuses and the communities around them. There are now 182 Bicycle Friendly Universities in 45 states and Washington, D.C.
“From renewing platinums to brand new bronzes, this latest class of Bicycle Friendly University awardees show a wonderful commitment to safety, health, and sustainability through their efforts to support bicycling on campus,” said Amelia Neptune, director of the League’s Bicycle Friendly America Program. “We applaud this round of BFUs for raising the standard and being innovative in making bicycling a safe, convenient and enjoyable option for students, staff and visitors alike.”
UCA created a Bike-Friendly UCA committee to promote and provide a more bikeable campus, as well as create a university Bicycle Master Plan. Dr. Peter Mehl, interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts, led the committee and the effort to achieve the BFU distinction.
“Lots of students love to cycle and more and more faculty and staff are riding their bikes to work and for recreation,” Mehl said. “This is one way to measure the high-quality institution that we are. This will attract more students, faculty and staff because we can say we are a bike-friendly campus.”
Moving forward, UCA will have access to a variety of free tools and technical assistance from the League to become even more bicycle-friendly.
To learn more about UCA’s bicycle friendly efforts, visit www.uca.edu/bikefriendly.
To apply or learn more about the free BFU program, visit the League online at www.bikeleague.org/university.
ABOUT THE LEAGUE OF AMERICAN BICYCLISTS
The League of American Bicyclists is leading the movement to create a Bicycle Friendly America for everyone. As leaders, our commitment is to listen and learn, define standards and share best practices to engage diverse communities and build a powerful, unified voice for change. Learn more at bikeleague.org.
