University Police Services at University of Nevada, Reno implemented two "Walk Zones" at the beginning of this school year.
With the growing student population over the last three to five years, campus police say different modes of alternative transportation have increased, but it hasn't necessarily been smooth. Todd Renwick, Assistant Police Chief, says, "Skateboards and bikes and pedestrians just aren't mingling well, we get several near misses a day, we get lots of complaints."
There are two Walk Zones on campus, where bicyclists and skateboarders need to dismount and walk their bikes and skateboards, instead. The first is located in front of the student union, extending south past the Knowledge Center. The other is the east side of Hilliard Plaza, which officials say will extend to the whole plaza once construction is finished.
Nearly 500 bikes are registered on campus this year, but it's estimated the real number sits at about 1,500 bikes. Campus police say the first step is spreading the word about the Walk Zones and educating students. Renwick says, "We've done some striping on the pavement to show shared used for bicycles and vehicles. We'll be putting signs up for not only pedestrians but bicyclists and skateboarders to know where Walk Zones are."
Violators will be given a warning, but if they're riding recklessly or speeding, they could be given a citation, as well.
See the full release from University Police Services below:
University Police Services reminds campus community about transportation safety
The start of the fall semester brings vehicle traffic, bicycle/skateboarding concerns and pedestrian safety
RENO, Nev. – University Police Services is reminding students, faculty, staff and visitors to be mindful of increased traffic at the start of the fall semester.
“Our campus community is driving, walking, biking and skateboarding to and from the University,” Todd Renwick, University Police Services assistant police chief, said. “We are asking the community to be mindful and attentive while commuting through or around campus.”
Bikes on campus
University Parking and Transportation Services reports that nearly 500 bicycles have been registered on campus this fall. Approximately 65 bike areas and racks, 55 bicycle lockers and four air filling stations help provide students options for alternative transportation on and around campus. Those interested in learning more about bicycling on and around campus should visit www.unr.edu/bicycle to view the campus cycling map and to register their bike.
“Reno Municipal Code states that a bicyclist must obey all traffic laws and that bicycles should be ridden as if the rider is operating a motor vehicle,” Renwick said.
New this year, the University has two designated Walk Zones on campus where bicyclists need to dismount and walk their bikes or use an alternate route. These Walk Zones were created to preserve the safety of pedestrians. The two locations are the Joe Crowley Student Union Gateway Plaza, heading south, past the front of the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center, and the east side of Hilliard Plaza. These are noted on the Campus Bicycle Map.
LimeBike bike share program is a new transportation option on campus. Police Services asks that when using LimeBikes on campus, riders park the LimeBike in an existing bicycle rack. Bikes may not be parked in a way to impede pedestrian or vehicle traffic such as on sidewalks and roadways. Contact LimeBike directly with comments/concerns about the bike share program at 888-LIME-345 (888-546-3345) or email support@limebike.com.
Skateboards on campus
Under Reno Municipal Code, skateboards, roller skates and roller blades are not to be operated in a careless manner. Skateboards are allowed on campus, by policy, as a means of transportation to and from class and should be used in a safe and careful manner that does not include stunts or result in property damage.
Transportation safety tips
- While walking around campus look up, unplug, make eye contact and pay attention;
- While driving, your attention should be on the road. Obey the speed limits and be mindful of pedestrians and bicyclists. No texting or cell phone use while operating a motor vehicle.
- If you see something, say something by notifying Police Services at 775-334-COPS (2677) or by dialing 911 if it’s an emergency;
- Download the University of Nevada SafePack app. The app has important phone numbers, safety resources, a campus map, and allows users to file reports, text or email Police Services;
- Safeguard your belongings while on campus including backpacks, purses, laptops, earphones, cell phones, etc.;
- If biking on campus, lock your bike up with a U-bolt style lock. The proper way to lock a bike is through the front tire, frame and to the bike rack. Police Services will provide a demonstration if you come to the department;
- Do not leave valuables in your vehicle and be sure to lock your vehicle.
For more information, go to www.unr.edu/police.
