The University of New Mexico |
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PRESS RELEASE
Contact : Chad Lee,(505) 277-7584
October 6, 2005
BIKE AUCTION HIGHLIGHTS UNM'S BIKE TO SCHOOL CELEBRATION
An estimated nine percent of students, staff and faculty ride their bikes to the University of New Mexico everyday. In an effort to recognize Albuquerque's bicyclists and alternative commuting opportunities, the university will promote International Walk and Bike to School/Work Week, beginning with a celebration, Friday, October 7, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the UNM Duck Pond.
A bike auction, sponsored by UNM Police, is scheduled to run throughout the event with dozens of bikes up for auction.
Students, faculty, staff and community members will have access to information on the benefits of cycling, bicycle traffic laws, proper helmet usage, bicycle pathways around Albuquerque and other important information about bicycle commuting.
Federal spending of bicycling and walking facilities has grown to more than $416 million, according to the 2004 Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The Albuquerque Metropolitan area has more than 85 miles of paved multi-use trails and hundreds of miles of unpaved trails that are used by bicyclists.
In conjunction with these incentives, the university installed several new bike racks around campus to accommodate its students using alternative forms of transportation. With the continual parking
shortages at UNM, bicycle commuting is becoming a reality for many students and faculty members.
Although UNM encourages its students, faculty and staff to use alternative forms of transportation, campus authorities are enacting policies and procedures for bicycles and other nonmotorized vehicles.
"Individuals on bicycles and other nonmotorized vehicles must understand they have responsibilities and rules to follow when on their equipment. We are most concerned with the safety of those individuals and the people around them," said UNM Police Department Dispatcher, Charles Baca.
Bike to School Day is an event made possible by the office of Transportation Information/Project Facilitation (TIPF). TIPF is proud to provide UNM students and faculty with information on the variety of riding options for Albuquerque's bike riding citizens.
For additional information, please visit these web sites:
International Walk to School Day in the USA www.walktoschool.org
International Walk to School Day www.iwalktoschool.org
Partnership for a Walkable America www.walkableamerica.org
The City of Albuquerque Public Works Department's Transportation Division www.cabq.gov/bike
UNM Way to Go www.unm.edu/waytogo/bicycling.html
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