“The program is a significant step toward reducing vehicle use on campus.” – Samantha Prahl, Student Association president

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Student Association contributed $15,000 to the Union Outing Center for the UWM Bike Loan Program in a ceremony Aug. 28 in the Fireside Lounge.

The money will be used to purchase 50 additional bicycles that will be loaned out to students free of charge during the school year. All students need is a valid UWM ID to rent a bicycle.

The program has been in use for several years, but many of the bikes were older and in need of maintenance.

“Having new bikes to distribute this fall will really help generate a lot of new interest,” said Bike Loan Program Coordinator Gary Miller.

With parking space notoriously limited on campus, the program provides a healthy and efficient alternative for commuters.

“The bike loan program offers an environmentally positive and creative solution to transit issues,” said Chancellor Carlos Santiago. “This symbolizes what we can do with partnership and teamwork between the community and university.”

An emphasis on encouraging bike use for those who typically drive to class is the primary goal of the program.

“This is a great way for the students, university and community to come together to try to alleviate the parking problem around the UWM campus,” said SA President Samantha Prahl. “The program is a significant step toward reducing vehicle use on campus.”

The money was initially approved by the SA Senate in April to ensure that the additional bikes would be ready for fall use.

Students will be able to rent bicycles for the upcoming semester beginning at noon on Sept. 11 in the Union Outing Center, which is located in the basement of the Union next to the Gasthaus.

Twenty bicycles will be loaned out per day until there are none left. Bikes will be rented on a first come, first serve basis, and priority will be given to students who live farther from campus. Bikes come with additional lights and a U-lock. In addition, students must sign an injury waiver and are held responsible for theft or damage to the bike.

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