Getting Around Campus Sustainably

Coming from a bike-oriented background, steering the Furman University Paladins on Bikes (FUPOB) program seemed like a perfect fit for me. However, taking on the role of Alternative transportation Fellow offered much more than simply renting bikes to students.  

My name is Lucas White and the Shi Institute’s Alternative Transportation Fellow position primarily focuses on distributing affordable bike rentals for Furman students. FUPOB (Furman University Paladains on Bikes) renal program offers an eco-friendly way to travel into town (and around campus), which I have done many times, as Greenville is my hometown. While this may seem like a small thing to some, it also helps students focus on their academics by cutting down on travel time between classes, in addition to encouraging mental and physical wellness. Some might remember a time when FUPOB also provided bicycle repair services to Furman Students, but these days partnering with local professionals is a better fit. If you are in need of bike repair we can happily refer you.

In addition to bike rentals, FUPOB also works with the campus trolley and SafeRide. Due to the work of our previous Alternative Transportation Fellow, the campus trolley now has clear signage marking passenger pickup and drop-off locations. Personally, this has helped me when I do not have my phone so I know where I can wait for the trolley. And this is especially helpful to our guests, who get a clear visual of the services our campus has to offer when exploring our university.

As for traveling throughout our campus, we at the Shi Institute are so grateful for the many ways Furman offers eco-friendly and communal transportation. With that said, we encourage all students to utilize bikes, the trolley, and SafeRide to get around campus. And when wanting to go to downtown Greenville, consider taking the Greenlink bus system with a group of friends or carpooling, instead of driving alone. If you are interested in renting a bike (we now offer monthly rentals for just $25!) or have general transportation questions, comments, or suggestions please email [email protected].