Tebben Lopez/the Mirror
One of the milestones of growing up is the graduation from training wheels to a two-wheel bike. But what happens to the bicycle when you’re packing the car up for college? For those who left it at home, Fairfield has an option that may appeal to you.
Last year, the decision was made to restrict parking to upperclassmen and commuters only. The new policy helped push the 5-year-old concept of expanding bike use on campus. This year, Fairfield University has purchased 15 new bicycles for students to use on campus.
The bicycles will be kept in the halls of the three Quad dorms, where students can show their StagCard and rent one free of charge. Students will also be able to rent helmets and locks for the bicycles.
James Fitzpatrick, Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs, and his collaborators, said that they wanted to support the new bike shop, and had the support of the “vibrant and enthusiastic environmental group.” The new parking restrictions also helped. Tying in with the University’s drive to be green, students riding bicycles will also reduce the carbon footprint.
It started as an experiment and five bicycles were purchased from Trek Bicycle. Then Associate Director of Residence Life, Jason Downer, agreed to coordinate with Dolan Hall because of its inconvenient distance from the main campus.
According to Fitzpatrick, the students liked the new program and “we knew we wanted to expand [it].”
While there is no definitive way of gauging the success of the program, “the reports from Residence Life staff indicate that we have a good program with the potential to be great,” said Fitzpatrick.
“There’s nothing foreseeable to downgrade the program,” he said, and he is hopeful to put five bicycles in each of the dormitories next year.
On many university campuses, the bike is a staple – even preferred – transportation method. “There are a good six out of nine school months that are good for riding,” said Fitzpatrick. And he hinted that there is talk in the town of Fairfield to expand the existing bike paths to reach the beach. “But this may be years and years from now,” he said.
Students around campus have mixed feelings, “It’s easier,” said Mariyeah Charlton’12, “and you could get around town without having to take the shuttle.”
On the other hand, Greg Bukoski ’14 said, “I haven’t ridden a bike in years.” Fitzpatrick counters, “it’s healthy, it gets you from point A to point B quickly and it’s fun!” Plus, they say once you learn how to ride, you never forget how.
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