Bicycle resources aim to make biking on the Indianapolis campus safe and convenient. emPhoto by Liz Kaye, Indiana University /emWith Earth Month in full swing and warmer weather upon us, Parking and Transportation Services and the Office of Sustainability in Indianapolis want to remind faculty, staff and students that many campus resources are available for bicyclists.

That includes an indoor bicycle storage facility, free bike locks, free bike permits, more than 100 bike racks, dedicated bike lanes and eight repair stations. Free bike repair events are also held on campus; registration is open for the next one on April 15.

The benefits of being a registered bike permit holder include access to the Tower Garage Bike Storage facility, which protects bikes from rain, snow and other adverse weather conditions, and a free bicycle U-Lock. Permits also serve as a visible theft deterrent and may help in recovering a lost or stolen bicycle.

“These resources aim to make biking around campus safe and convenient,” said Andrew McGee, Parking and Transportation Services associate director of transportation demand and space management. “We also hope that the accessibility of bicycle services and amenities encourages students and employees to choose to bike to class or work when possible, as a healthy and sustainable alternative to driving.”

City cycling resources are also easily accessible. The Indianapolis Cultural Trail is connected to campus, and the citywide Pacers Bikeshare program has several docking stations on campus.

Plans are underway to build a new path for cyclists and pedestrians along University Boulevard from Indiana Avenue to Michigan Street, thanks to a $300,000 grant awarded in 2023 from the Indianapolis Department of Public Works.

In 2022, the campus was named a Bicycle Friendly University by the League of American Bicyclists. Campuses that earn the designation offer well-connected bike networks with infrastructure for people of all ages and abilities.