A student group at Portland Community College’s Cascade campus in North Portland has launched a bike rental program.
The Associated Students of PCC says the new program — that offers bikes (refurbished by the Community Cycling Center) for $15 a term — is an effort to, “increase access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable transportation.” Here’s more from ASPCCC:
“Through the integration of long-term bicycle loans, education, and recreation, the Cascade Bike Program will enhance the physical and cultural development of students. As a resource for alternative transportation, we will minimize our campus and community environmental impact… The Bike Program is an important step in the PCC’s commitment to sustainability and reducing our impact on the environment.”
The student group partnered with Portland-based Cyclone Bicycle Supply and Portland Design Works to outfit the bikes with new accessories including fenders, bells, lights, locks, and helmets. The program also includes access to DIY bike repair classes thanks to the Bike Farm and they’ll even pair up students with volunteer opportunities at the Community Cycling Center.
To be eligible for the program, students must be on financial aid and maintain a minimum course load in good academic standing.
PCC’s Cascade campus (705 N. Killingsworth) boasts a 10 percent bike mode split among students and staff — the highest among the school’s four regional campuses. The campus is on a growth streak and it’s adjacent to residential neighborhoods. As we saw with the discussion about a new multi-level parking garage back in December, auto parking capacity is a major issue. This program is one of several transportation demand management (TDM) strategies the school hopes will resolve that problem.
For more information on the program, visit ASPCC’s Bike Program website.