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University to open impressive Bike Hub
The University of the Sunshine Coast will unveil another link in its chain of initiatives to encourage alternatives to car use with the opening of an impressive Bike Hub tomorrow (Thursday 17 March).
This $55,000 facility offers far more than just a place for University staff and students to store bicycles during work hours and study time.
It is a dedicated end-of-trip facility which includes secure parking and lockers for bicycles, personal lockers, showers and toilet facilities. Access to the Bike Hub is via swipe card only and the facility is monitored at all times by security cameras.
USC will stage an official opening event on Thursday 17 March from 11.15am to noon. Those who attend with their bikes will receive a cycling gift pack from Sunshine Coast Council’s TravelSmart program and go in the running to win prizes. Bicycle maintenance experts will be on hand to chat with cyclists.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill said the Bike Hub was yet another initiative the University had introduced in the past year to help make public transport and cycling more attractive to students and staff.
“As the University has grown, we have been working to reduce pressure on our roads and environment with initiatives to lessen solo private car trips to and from campus,” he said.
“USC is not only focusing on sustainability in its teaching and research, we are also determined to grow sustainably in practical ways.”
Professor Hill said the University, in conjunction with Sunshine Coast Council and TransLink, last month introduced an Australian-first trial of a U-pass scheme, providing 2,000 students with $70 worth of subsidised bus travel this semester.
This innovative scheme is aimed at doubling the current bus usage rates by students from 15 percent to 30 percent.
Other recent transport initiatives by USC have included establishing dedicated carpooling car parks and providing land on campus for TransLink to create the Sunshine Coast’s second largest bus transit centre.
Sunshine Coast Council Integrated Transport Systems Portfolio Councillor Vivien Griffin said the region was fortunate to have the University as such an outstanding champion for sustainable transport.
"I hope that other major organisations are inspired by the University's example, which will definitely contribute to protecting the great Sunshine Coast lifestyle," she said.
"Earlier this year, Sunshine Coast Council's TravelSmart team signed an agreement to work with the University to implement a travel behaviour change program.
"The introduction of innovative initiatives such as the U-pass and now their new Bike Hub is evidence of a commitment to making a difference. Together we are working with students and staff to promote and encourage sustainable transport options such as walking, cycling, riding, public transport and carpooling,” Cr Griffin said.
— Terry Walsh