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CORVALLIS, Ore. - The League of American Bicyclists has recognized Oregon State University as a Gold-level Bicycle Friendly University, one of only 12 universities in the United States that has achieved this level.

Gold level indicates that the university has implemented bicycle projects, policies and programs to connect transportation and recreation throughout the community and that a strong commitment to cycling is demonstrated. Only Platinum level is higher; as of 2015 only five universities had achieved Platinum status.

Oregon State is one of 127 Bike Friendly Universities across the United States. The bike-friendly nature of Oregon State and the surrounding Corvallis community has helped contribute to a healthy, sustainable and safe community while lowering demand for parking on campus. Oregon State encourages bicycling as an easy, healthy transportation option and provides amenities such as covered and uncovered bike parking, bike lockers, bike fix-it stands, and an on-campus bike shop, as well as a bike loan program, bicycle safety training, and bicycle registration services.

Meredith Williams, director of Transportation Services at OSU, said completing the BFU application gave Oregon State staff the opportunity to appreciate all of the ways the university supports bicyclists.

"It also sparked new ideas for how we can continue to improve the bicyclist's experience on campus, such as plans to create a bike ambassador program and participate in the National Bike Challenge," Williams said. "We appreciate the recognition from the league, and we want to thank the many students and employees who ride to campus rain or shine. Their participation is the primary reason we received this award."

This award grants OSU access to a variety of free tools and technical assistance from the organization to become even more bicycle-friendly. By investing in bicycling, universities can decrease their carbon footprint, see mental and physical health benefits for staff and students, reduce parking demands, create positive connections with the local community, and foster a healthy campus culture.

"We applaud this round of BFUs for raising the standard of what a bicycle-friendly campus looks like," said Amelia Neptune, the league's Bicycle Friendly University program manager.

To learn more about the free BFU program, visit the league online at www.bikeleague.org/university.