Campus Connection

It is the responsibility of both bicyclists and pedestrians to be safe on campus sidewalks. Here are some tips from Carolyn Dvorak, Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin Bicycle Ambassador for La Crosse, on sharing sidewalk space without accidents. Bicyclists:

• Yield to pedestrians; they have the right of way.

• Ride your bike slowly! Leave enough time to get where you need to go.

• When passing pedestrians, give them space.

• Travel in straight predictable pathways.

• Avoid using cell phones and electronic devices.

• Warn pedestrians when approaching them from behind.

Pedestrians:

• Be alert.

• Avoid using cell phones and electronic devices while walking.

Next week is ‘Ditch the Car’ week Students, faculty and staff living off campus are invited to join in celebrating UW-L’s second annual "Ditch the Car" week, Monday, Sept. 26 through Sunday, Oct. 2. Participants are encouraged to give their cars a rest and commute to UW-L by walking, biking, taking the bus or carpooling. “We want to raise awareness about alternative forms of transportation that are greener than driving cars,” says Rob Tyser, UW-L biology professor who is helping organize the event. “Cars are one of the primarily contributors of greenhouse gases. This way to cut down on emissions, it’s healthy and it’s fun to walk or bike to work.” Join the event as an individual or by forming “green teams” with colleagues or classmates. Individuals and teams will be recognized for total green miles traveled, longest commutes, number of trips and team size. Team challenges are encouraged. Participants will submit their travel data online. Contact Tyser at rtyser@uwlax.edu to be included. Learn more about the week here.