By Lindsay Haislip
News Editor
As the Secretary of the Environment for the SGA, junior Jenny Lee wanted to develop a project that would have a positive impact on the Washington College community as well as the environment. The Bike Share Program, set to begin next semester, will provide students, faculty, and staff with a “safe, healthy alternative to driving,” said Lee.
In a town where public transportation is very minimal, there is little other way to get around than on foot or by vehicle. Cars are a major source of pollution through the burning of fossil fuels and carbon dioxide emissions. Furthermore, with limited parking on campus and expensive fees, bikes are a welcome alternate form of transportation. Through the program, students, faculty, and staff will be able to rent bikes for the day and use them to get around.
“The possibility of renting a bike for a period of time would allow students to run errands in town, utilize the waterfront both for labs or recreation, explore the town, and make better town-gown relationships,” Lee said.
As far as the logistics of the program, approximately 10 bikes will be purchased initially from the local Chester River Outfitters, and will be stored in the bike racks outside of the Public Safety office on campus.
Students will pay a $10 fee to have access to the bikes, which will go toward maintenance and cost of the bikes. Helmets will be provided if the rider chooses. To prevent theft, bikes will be customized in WC spirit, with black and maroon paint, the ‘Goose Nation’ logo, and an ID tag.
To rent a bike, riders will simply use a check out sheet and present their student ID number, and will be able to use the bike up until the scheduled return time at 11 a.m. the following day. Riders will have the opportunity to ‘renew’ the bike if they choose, for the next day as well. A strike system will be in place for riders who fail to return bikes on time; those who have more than three strikes will have their bike privileges suspended for a period of time.
This program will not only provide students with a quick way to navigate Chestertown, but will also cut down on the harmful emissions, which cars present.
“Fewer cars means less pollution and less congestion, and bikes are a great alternative, especially since our campus is relatively small, and the town and college are located so close,” said Lee.
Chestertown is currently working on a rails-trails program that will provide greater access for bikes around town. With this new Bike Share Program in place, students, faculty, and staff will have safe and convenient transportation through Chestertown and the surrounding area.