Bemidji State Earns Bicycle Friendly University Bronze, Expands Bike Access

Bemidji State University received a bronze level Bicycle Friendly University designation from the League of American Bicyclists, university officials announced on November 21, 2025. The award acknowledges campus efforts to promote cycling among students, staff and visitors, and signals institutional commitment to expanding active transportation options in Beltrami County.

The league describes the recognition as promoting and providing a more bikeable campus for students, staff and visitors. Bemidji State earned credit for several tangible programs, including a campus bike share built from the former Nice Ride fleet, a student run Earth Day bicycle fix it clinic, and student designed bike racks that increased secure parking options. The university will retain its bronze status through the next designation cycle and must reapply to maintain or improve that level.

Jordan Lutz, BSU sustainability project manager, played a central role in building momentum for cycling across the academic year. Lutz, who advocates for riding in all four seasons, described how the transition from a regional bike share helped the campus expand access. "(Nice Ride) decided to leave the bicycle fleet within the community," Lutz explained. "And the university was one of a couple partners able and willing to adopt the bike fleet under the assumption or unwritten commitment that we would maintain it and ensure that we used it."

Using those former Nice Ride bicycles, Bemidji State launched Bucky Bikes, a low cost rental option for students, faculty and staff. Rental fees are set at 25 dollars per semester and 40 dollars for the summer, offering an affordable mobility choice for students who might otherwise rely on cars or public transit. Smaller fees and on campus maintenance programs can reduce individual transportation expenses while supporting local repair services and bike retailers.

The designation carries local policy and market implications. For campus planners and county officials, it provides a framework for prioritizing bike infrastructure, winter maintenance and safety education. For local businesses, increased cycling and a maintained municipal fleet could raise demand for parts and repairs during winter months when equipment needs more attention. Bemidji State said it will continue promoting cycling, including targeted winter biking initiatives, to sustain momentum and potentially pursue a higher league ranking in future cycles.