This is fine, we support the University's decision to keep people on wheels off Central Campus.It makes for a safer climate for everyone on campus, bikers, rollerbladers and walkers.
We feel, however, that it is important for the University to remember the rights of all people, not just pedestrians.
Forcing cyclist to park in a concentrated area may increase thefts.
It's common knowledge that large areas of concentrated vehicles (cars, bikes, skateboards, etc.) are havens for thieves.
We've heard complaints about cyclists having to scour lots as early as 9 a.m. This is uncalled for.
If the University must stick bikes in concentrated areas of campus, then there should be more than enough racks to accommodate bikers.
The racks themselves, especially those in the Gillis parking lot, provide ineffective protection to bikes.
Most bikes are a sizable investment to college students and by mandating parking areas and not providing protection from thieves or the elements, UK police and administration are doing cyclists a grave injustice.
In order for the new bike policy to work, pedestrians must remember to look when crossing the bike lanes.
Just as there are no-bike zones, pedestrians must respect the bike lanes.
Fining cyclists harshly will only cause resentment in the UK community. Cyclists caught violating the bike borders are subject to fines that are twice the amount for a parking ticket.
We understand the need for compliance on this policy, but how about some parity with the fines.
After all, is riding a bike on campus as heinous as parking in a handicap zone?