Flashfleet had a successful introductory season this fall with more than 3,000 bike checkouts from its six locations on campus. The bike-sharing program on the Kent Campus operated between Aug. 30 and Nov. 10.

Provost Robert G. Frank (second from left) helped introduce
the Flashfleet program.

"We received excellent feedback from the students; they are already calling for more bikes," says Flashfleet manager Marie Supanich.

Flashfleet, a second-generation bike-share system, was developed from concerns over rising fuel costs, traffic congestion across campus, consistent enrollment increases each semester, decreased physical fitness and a greater consciousness about climate change. It was a collaborative effort between the departments of Recreational Services and Residence Services, the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs, the Office of the Provost and Undergraduate Student Government.

"Affordability and accessibility helped Flashfleet be very well received this fall," Supanich says. "We are pleased that our expectations for bike usage were far surpassed."

Flashfleet has been an excellent way to further the commitment to linking the downtown community with the Kent Campus, says Megan Petroski, a graduate assistant in the university's Office of Sustainability.

"We have a large body of students, a large campus, an excellent and lively downtown community and a biking culture that is ripe for expansion," Petroski says.

Because of the success of its introductory season, there are plans for the expansion of Flashfleet. Over the winter months, details for next years' program will be finalized and announced, Supanich says. Specific expansion to Regional Campuses is expected for this coming semester, but is an additional consideration for the future.

For additional information about Flashfleet, go to the website.