Grinnell College Receives Bronze Bicycle Friendly University Award from the League of American Bicyclists
Grinnell College has been recognized as a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly University (BFU) by the League of American Bicyclists, marking the institution's first appearance on this distinguished list. Grinnell is one of 42 colleges and universities awarded the BFU designation this year, which also includes three institutions receiving Honorable Mentions.
This award comes during Campus Sustainability Month, a time when higher education institutions reflect on and celebrate their sustainability initiatives. BFU awardees serve as leading examples for other campuses, showing that prioritizing better biking not only addresses climate challenges but also equips students with sustainable transportation solutions for a more livable future. Grinnell College's commitment to supporting bicycle-friendly initiatives is part of a broader vision to cultivate a campus environment that promotes active transportation and reduces its carbon footprint.
Tim Hammond, associate dean for health and wellness and director of student health promotion, said, “Grinnell students and employees bring a variety of experiences with bicycling to our campus, and the enthusiasm for active transportation is a step toward addressing the challenge of climate change. Promoting bicycling connects directly with our college’s mission of pursuing knowledge for the intellectual, moral, and physical well-being of individuals and society, and aligns with our strategic goal to foster thriving, inclusive communities through shared actions that uplift all identities. Additionally, our commitment to environmental stewardship is reinforced by incorporating sustainable practices across campus planning and partnerships.”
“I’m excited to receive the League of American Bicyclists’ recommendations and look forward to building on the impactful efforts our students and community members have led to make bicycling a central part of campus life. Together, we can go even further in making Grinnell a model for sustainable transportation,” added Hammond.
Achieving and maintaining a Bicycle Friendly University designation requires continuous improvement. Campuses recognized by the League, including Grinnell, are demonstrating their dedication to a healthier, more sustainable future by enhancing bike infrastructure and fostering a culture that encourages active, eco-friendly transportation.
About the Bicycle Friendly University℠ Program
Bicycle Friendly University awards reflect local leaders’ ongoing work to build better places to bike and evaluate those efforts as part of a national movement. Each of the five levels of the Bicycle Friendly University award – diamond, platinum, gold, silver, and bronze, plus an honorable mention category – provide a clear path for businesses to continuously improve. Visit bikeleague.org/university to learn more about the BFU program.
About the League Of American Bicyclists
Since 1880, the League of American Bicyclists has been people-powered, with a goal to make bicycling safer and easier as a means of transportation and recreation. Today, the League continues to improve lives and strengthen communities through bicycling. We are more than 200,000 members and supporters strong with more than 1,000 state and local advocacy groups and bike clubs as well as thousands of businesses, universities, and communities together leading the movement to create a Bicycle Friendly America for everyone.