UWPD Urges Driver, Bicycle, Pedestrian Safety

With the beginning of the fall semester, the University of Wyoming Police Department (UWPD) reminds drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists to follow standards of safety and courtesy.

After a summer of construction, not all traffic controls are functioning correctly. Lightning-caused damage to the controls at the 15th and Ivinson intersection has created a situation in which lights are strictly on a timer, with a dedicated crosswalk signal every 1.5 minutes. It is estimated that replacement parts may not be available for about 30 days.

Additional concerns that have been reported:

-- Bicyclists and skateboarders not respecting dismount zones.

-- Vehicles parked in a manner that obstructs city bike lanes.

-- Pedestrians not crossing at marked crosswalks or waiting for crossing signals.

“UW is a walking campus, so major walking paths may be subject to dismount zones,” says UW Police Chief Mike Samp. “Remember, when you are on your bike, you have the same responsibilities as drivers. So, you have to obey traffic signals, stop signs, ride with the traffic, and you should never ride more than two people abreast in the right-hand lane.”

Additionally, he advises riders to use signals, and slow down and give pedestrians plenty of space when passing. And bicycles are not allowed on sidewalks unless they are designated as bike paths.

“Bicyclists are encouraged to ride at the same speed as pedestrians in dual-use areas. And, most of all, both pedestrians and bicyclists should be aware of their surroundings to help ensure we don’t have conflicts in those areas,” Samp says.

For those looking for bicycle repair, UW’s Outdoor Program provides tools and an area where students can come in and work on their own bikes. In addition, the program provides a series of bike-tuning clinics so people can learn how to work on their own bikes. The Outdoor Program is located in the northeast section of the Half Acre Recreation and Wellness Center.

Bike registrations are available at the UWPD, 1426 E. Flint St. Registering bikes greatly improves the chances at recovery if your bike is stolen.

In addition, the UW Pedestrian and Bike Safety Committee is planning Bike to UW Day, set for 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, in Simpson Plaza. Numerous campus entities will provide various items for participation, and the effort will be supported by bike-related businesses from Laramie. 

A full list of UW’s bicycle regulations can be found at www.uwyo.edu/uwpd/on-campus-services/bicycle-information. For a detailed map of dismount zones and bike racks, go to www.uwyo.edu/rec/outdoor-program/_files/docs/uw-bike-paths.pdf.

For more information, call UWPD at (307) 766-5179.