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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville has once again been recognized as a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly University℠ (BFU) by the League of American Bicyclists, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable transportation, student wellbeing and an accessible campus experience. SIUE is one of only 204 universities nationwide to receive a BFU distinction.

This recurring badge of merit follows a comprehensive application process that evaluates bicycle infrastructure, safety measures, education programs and partnerships that support healthy and environmentally responsible mobility. For SIUE, it reflects steady, long-term progress in creating a campus where students, employees and visitors can move confidently on two wheels while connecting to the region’s renowned trail network.

“This recognition highlights SIUE’s continued investment in the well-being of our students by promoting healthy, accessible and eco-friendly transportation that connects our students to the outdoors and our community,” said Dave Hagedorn, associate director of Campus Recreation.

According to Hagedorn, SIUE’s renewed designation incorporates several major enhancements since the University’s last application cycle: increased campus safety initiatives, connectivity to neighboring communities and programming designed to challenge and incorporate the student experience.

For safety, SIUE Campus Police expanded their bicycle patrol program through personnel investment, new equipment and dedicated maintenance support. Madison County Transit donated two Police Interceptor e-bikes to the department, strengthening a fleet that now includes both e-bikes and traditional bicycles.

Additionally, SIUE also advanced a key community partnership through the creation of the Yellowhammer trail connection last year. This joint effort between the University and Madison County Transit was supported by the donation of 4.86 acres of SIUE land, linking an existing SIUE trail to the larger regional system.

This summer, Campus Recreation also launched its first-ever Bike Bingo initiative, encouraging students to ride to public art sites, local businesses and trail destinations while learning how to combine biking with public transit. The department also created new video-based trail itineraries using first-person rider footage to help students navigate unfamiliar routes. The videos were designed for users who may not be fluent map readers or who use SIUE’s trail system in a second language, providing an accessible, visual learning tool.

Together, these initiatives went into consideration for the recognition of the BFU designation.

“Being recognized as a Bike Friendly University affirms SIUE’s commitment to fostering a sustainable, healthy and connected campus where cycling is safe, accessible and celebrated,” said Hagedorn.

SIUE previously earned the Bronze BFU designation in 2022, and continues to build upon that foundation with new infrastructure, community partnerships and wellness-driven programming that contribute to a more connected campus environment. The 2025 designation is valid through 2029.

For more information about SIUE Campus Recreation’s biking resources, including Bike Share, trail itineraries and educational programs, visit siue.edu/campus-recreation.

Bicycle Friendly University is a Service Mark of the League of American Bicyclists. Used with permission. Learn more at bikeleague.org/university.

PHOTO: Yellowhammer Trail Connection Opening Ceremony