Towson University
OP-T2-26: Bicycle Sharing

Towson University rolled out its first bike rental program in the Spring of 2012. Twenty-five students lined up at the University Union for the free bikes, offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Students will return the bikes at the end of the term. The program was developed to: •Offer an alternative mode of transportation that is more affordable and promotes healthy lifestyle choices •Educate students about the impact their personal choices have on the environment •Build community •Promote safety, i.e., biking may be safer at night than walking across campus •Provide students a more efficient way to move around campus To participate, students sign a registration form and liability waiver. Students are responsible for any personal injury to themselves, as well as damage done to the bicycle. The bike rental program is coordinated by the Office of Civic Engagement and Campus Recreation Services. Campus Recreation Services staff oversee the day-to-day operations of the program and distribute bikes to students as they sign up. Staff advise student participants of the terms and conditions of the program, including the return date for bicycles. Upon return of the bicycle at the end of the term, staff will review the condition of the bicycle with the vendor, Joe’s Bike Shop, to determine any damage beyond normal wear and tear. Failure to return the bike on time, or to return the bike in its received condition, may result in the student being charged on his or her university bursar account for late fees or damage to the bicycle.