A new University transportation program hopes to offer a fun, fit, and faster way to get around campus.

The University of Guam Bike Share Program allows all students to rent bicycles to use both on and off campus, said Director of Residence Halls Jonathan Triplett.

“The purpose of the program is to enhance the students’ experience while providing them with transportation to stores and shops,” he said. “There’s also the added benefit of providing a form of fitness and exercise.”

Ten shiny Giant 1-speed Cruisers—especially fitted for both men and women—are temporarily housed in the lobby of Iya’hami Hall. Triplett said 10 more will arrive in the next week, and, depending on how fast the program takes off, he hopes to have a total of 60 bikes in the next few months.

“This is such a great addition to the overall student experience here at the University,” said Senior Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Anita Borja Enriquez. “Our students can really take advantage of the benefits to riding around campus—from fitness to the environment—it’s a great solution that I know many will enjoy.”

Procedures

Each bike comes with a mandatory helmet and lock. Triplett said he’s currently working with Plant Management to install six to ten new bike racks throughout campus so students have a safe and secure place to store the bikes while in class. In the future, Triplett also plans to host bike maintenance workshops to educate students on how to properly take care of the equipment.

Junior Benhart Mangwechog, who has lived in Iya’hami Hall for the last 10 months, said for students like himself who don’t own cars, this is a great option to quickly get around campus and nearby facilities.

“I like to go around places, and I have two skateboards in my room,” he said. “But I prefer to bike. For me, it’s too expensive to buy a bicycle, so we’re really lucky to have a program like this to assist us.” 

For information on the UOG Bike Share Program, contact Jonathan Triplett at (671)735-2260.