GSU tries to increase bike use

By Laura Diamond

For the AJC

Georgia State University started a program to encourage students and others to use bicycles to get to and move around the Atlanta campus. College officials said bicyclists would reduce motor vehicle congestion and reduce air pollution.

The project, GSU Bikes,  is supported by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Program organizers plan to survey bicyclists and analyze use patterns to determine where more and improved bike racks should be placed. They also plan to talk with downtown businesses about ways to make bicycling a stronger part of campus life.

As part of the initiative, officials announced a contest to design a bike rack that is functional, secure and "aesthetically pleasing." Bike rack availability has been a concern for some, officials said.

For more information go to www.gsubikes.com.