UNM Parking and Transportation Services (PATS) announced the kick-off of their new Lobo Bikes bike-share program, calling for all UNM Departments to enter a raffle to receive a Lobo Bike for a year. Ten winning departments will receive a Lobo Bike equipped with lock, helmet, basket, odometer, maintenance and safety training – cost free.
To enter your department in the raffle, visit Parking and Transportation Services and click on the Lobo Bikes link. A raffle ticket is available for download on the Lobo Bikes page. The response deadline is March 28.
Lobo Bikes can be used to run errands on campus, attend meetings, or for exercise during breaks. The program is funded by a UNM World of Wellness mini-grant and is intended to enhance the health and well-being of employees at UNM.
“As employees become healthier, their productivity increases,” said Cynthia Martin, PATS program planning manager. “Studies have shown workplace wellness initiatives reduce absenteeism and stress, lead to greater employee retention, and overall enhance employee satisfaction.”
In addition to the wellness benefits, Lobo Bikes was also intended to contribute to the larger university-wide goal of environmental responsibility.
“A bicycle is a short-cut and reduces traffic congestion around campus. Using a Lobo Bike can both reduce emissions and greenhouse gases, and also get you where you need to go with more efficiency,” Martin added.
Christine Mermier, acting manager of the Employee Health Promotion Program added, “the great thing about it is you are not only being more efficient for your job by getting across campus a little faster, but it’s fun and it makes you feel good.”
PATS invites all departments to take advantage of this unique opportunity and hopes to increase the program size in the future. Many other universities around the nation, including Harvard, Duke, and the College of William and Mary, have implemented similar bike-loan programs.
For more information visit Lobo Bikes or contact Danielle Gilliam at 277-0461 or dgilliam@parking.unm.edu.