A Look Into JMU's Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan

After looking at the biking and walking plans of other schools, it became clear that JMU's infrastructures and safety mechanisms were greatly lacking in comparison. However, the institution seems to realize this and is now implementing a Master Plan in order to promote biking and walking on campus in an efficient and fun way.

JMU has provided a sort of mission statement, detailing what they hope will be improved by implementing the Master Plan:

"The Master Plan will include a comprehensive system of bicycle and pedestrian routes, bicycle racks, signage and other facilities to accommodate, encourage and enhance the safe and convenient use of bicycling and walking on the JMU campus."

This statement clearly shows that the school is dedicated to the change and that they are starting to realize the positive effects biking and walking will have on their students. It is particularly interesting that the minds behind this plan want to work with environmental groups on campus in order to make sure they are putting the Master Plan into effect in the cleanest way.

The sudden push for a change seems to come from the realization that more students would use these means of transportation if the roads and sidewalks were safer and catered to their needs. This information was found through student surveys, so it is nice to see that JMU is really listening to the needs of the students.

Most of the information in this plan has to do with confusing infrastructure jargon as the committee illustrates the changes they plan to make. The main focus however is on the bettering of sidewalks and crosswalks for the safety of students. It is very encouraging to see that JMU is following in the successful footsteps of schools like UC Davis.