Dismount zones across the Illinois State University campus are marked and reserved for pedestrian use. As warmer weather arrives, recent social media posts on campus channels aimed to remind students, faculty and staff that dismount zones prohibit bicycles, skateboards, scooters, and other recreation and transportation devices. Despite the fun, April Fool’s message, no exemptions for German wheels exist, and riders are required to dismount and walk their devices through these areas. The zones are part of an approved University policy aimed at enhancing campus safety.
Dismount zones are clearly marked at entrances with signage indicating that recreation and transportation devices must be walked through these areas. Signs are located at entrances to dismount zones and include metal signs on posts or light poles displaying Reggie Redbird walking a bike and ground decals displaying the Walk Your Wheels logo.
“We are still focused on awareness, and the video on our social media channels were a fun way to bring attention to this newer policy on our campus,” said Adam McCrary, director of Illinois State’s Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) office.
At this time, police will not be actively enforcing the policy through intervention or issuing citations. The aim is to have campus community members hold themselves and others accountable and call out non-compliance.
“We hope to see a culture shift, similar to the no smoking policy, where a majority of the community recognizes this as a display of mutual respect with a positive impact on public safety,” said McCrary.
Incidents involving serious non-compliance can result in violations and enforcement through appropriate channels, including Student Conduct and Community Responsibilities, Human Resources, and University Police.
There are exceptions to the policy including devices for ADA mobility assistance, police bicycle patrol, emergency first responders, university vehicles, and special events which require pre-approval.
Observations of non-compliance, incidents, near misses, and concerns related to dismount zones should be reported to Environmental Health and Safety. Non-emergency reports should be submitted using the Submit a Health and Safety Concern Report located on the EHS website. Visit EHS’s website for additional contact information.
Download the Safe Redbirds app (Apple App Store and Google Play) to access the dismount zone map and make a report.
