Qualitative Survey Assessment of Bike Share Programs on College Campuses

Background: Many college campuses have implemented bike share programs. These programs may be important to reduce vehicle traffic and increase physical activity. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify issues and possible solutions for a successful campus bike share program. Methods: Study design: Qualitative. An online survey link was sent to 111 campus bike share coordinators in the Spring 2014. Twenty-five (22.5%) completed the survey. Answers to multiple choice questions were summarized using descriptive statistics. Answers to open-ended questions were reviewed and a list of themes was developed. Results: The majority of respondents represented large universities (56%) in urban areas (76%) with high vehicle traffic (72%). Although 84% considered their campus safe for biking, only 40% reported designated bike lanes. Most programs allowed people to sign out a bike for 24 hours or less (56%). The main problems were damage to bikes and on-time returns. Recommendations included designated mechanics for quick repairs, high quality bikes, user accountability, and user and staff training. Conclusion: Major issues and solutions were identified for campus bike share programs. Additional research needs to examine how these can be used to create successful bike share programs and how these programs might increase physical activity.