Several new bike racks are set to be installed around campus thanks to a new initiative from Students’ Association. Sean Branchaw, senior mathematics major from Derwood, Md., noticed bikes piling up at various locations and decided something needed to be done about the problem.
First on Branchaw’s list of locations is Moody Colesium. Branchaw proposed a bill to the Student Congress requesting funds for a new bike rack to be placed in this much-needed location and was granted funds to move forward with the project.
After Branchaw’s consultations with Corey Ruff from Facilities Management and Grounds Maintenance, the two selected a location outside of Moody. The new bike rack will be installed near the bridge outside of Moody headed towards Edwards. This location allows students to access it from both sides, doubling the amount of bike storage.
“If it’s not right next to the location, people won’t use it. We want a place that is very central but does not obstruct traffic flow,” said Branchaw.
Branchaw’s vision of more bike racks on campus is becoming a reality much faster than he thought it would. COBA has already purchased two bike racks for the Business Building that will be installed soon.
Next on Branchaw’s list was the Rec Center. When Branchaw brought up this location to Ruff, Ruff remembered a small, already painted bike rack in storage which could be installed almost immediately. In less than a week after its discovery, the new bike rack was installed and is already being put to use by students.
For other locations around ACU, Branchaw plans to work with other Congress members. He said he would like to see Students’ Association partner with departments for future installations at the Don Morris building and the Sherrod building.
In addition to the SA initiative, Residence Life is funding new bike racks at several different residence halls on campus.
Branchaw is excited to be a part of contributing to increased sustainability on campus. He hopes that by installing bike racks, other students will see the benefits of a sustainable campus.
“I’m really excited about making this campus more sustainable. ACU really cares about it, but I don’t know if students necessarily know all the options that are available to them. I’d love to increase visibility on campus which is why bike racks are a great start. They are generally indicative of sustainability. “
