U N I V E R S I T Y   S E N A T E

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The University Life Council of the University Senate has developed new guidelines for use of non-powered wheeled vehicles on campus and is seeking comment from the University community. Members of the University community are invited to a public hearing on the guidelines on Thursday, May 4, 2000 from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm in Campus Center, 361. Comments may also be e-mailed to Carol Anderson at [email protected] or Hank Kirchner at [email protected].

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Introduced by:	University Life Council
Date:	April 17, 2000

USE OF NON-POWERED WHEELED VEHICLES

IT IS HEREBY PROPOSED THAT THE FOLLOWING BE ADOPTED:

Whereas, non-powered wheeled vehicles (bicycles, in-line skates, skateboards, etc.) are non-polluting, quiet, and do not require scarce parking space; and

Whereas the use of non-powered wheeled vehicles has increased in recent years, and will continue to do so, as enrollment increases; and

Whereas non-powered wheeled vehicles promote fitness and are recreational; and

Whereas, the University at Albany, through its Master Plan, has made a major policy priority a redesignation of a portion of the campus as "pedestrian" in nature, with parking areas farther away; and

Whereas, the University has plans to increase enrollment at a time when parking lots are filled close to capacity; and

Whereas, the use of these non-powered wheeled vehicles is inevitable, and is ultimately consistent with the larger goals of the university, and it is necessary to institute a working policy; and

Whereas the University at Albany supports the use of non-powered wheeled vehicles as desirable, alternative transportation.

Be It Resolved That the University Senate

Recommends that the following policy guidelines be used in regulating the usage of wheeled vehicles (excluding wheelchairs, or other vehicles used by persons with physical disabilities):

1. The use of powered wheeled vehicles, except vehicles owned and operated by the Facilities Management and Physical Plant or similar University personnel, shall be restricted to roadways and parking areas duly marked and signed.

2. The use of non-powered wheeled vehicles is prohibited:
   • inside University buildings
   • at building entrances, loading docks, stairs, banisters, railings, landings, and ramps established for the disabled
   • anywhere restricted by signs.

   The use of bicycles is prohibited on the academic podium between the hours of 9:30 am and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

   If at any time, the use of these vehicles interferes with the regular University activities, any member of the University community may request that operators cease disruptive activity.

3. Operators of non-powered wheeled vehicles are expected to be responsible, use good judgment and not to operate vehicles in an unsafe manner. Unsafe operation means: use of operation in a manor which is unreasonable for the existing conditions, in a manner which endangers the safety of persons (including themselves) or which endangers or has the potential to damage University or private property. The use of safety equipment is recommended.

4. Violations: Any member of the University community is empowered to inform violators of these prohibitions and request that they cease such activities. Violations of these policies may result in:
   • notification of University Police Department
   • student judicial referral
   • parental notification in the case of minors not enrolled at the University at Albany.

5. As part of the implementation of this policy, some facilities may need to be upgraded.

As of now, there are no sidewalks along large sections of the perimeter road, and to some of the new and planned facilities. It is important that all existing sections of sidewalk be made contiguous as part of the projected completion of the Master Plan. The University should upgrade existing bicycle racks.