Decades ago, the need for an effective bicycle path system on Penn State's campus was officially recognized in The Daily Collegian. Since that time, there has been little debate from the administration, faculty, community or students regarding this issue.

Plans have been drafted and committees have been formed but the transportation system has remained chaotic and inadequate for pedestrians, motorists and bicyclists.

Our committee formed because we felt the time for active, physical change had come. From the beginning, we identified the creation of a mass transit system for bicyclists as key for productive and positive change. We have received tremendous support from all areas of the University and State College community.

We are interested in alleviating the campus congestion and creating a safe environment for all travelers not solely bicyclists.

As a committee, we have been inundated with requests for information from students who have identified the lack of provisions for bicycles on campus as material for speeches and papers. It is clearly an issue of safety and environmental concern.

Last spring, our committee submitted a proposal which highlighted the situation. We proposed that a centrally-located north/south bicycle plan linking College Avenue to Pollock Road to Curtain Road to Park Avenue be the first step in developing a responsible tranportation system.

We also recognize the concern for updated bicycle racks, bicycle education and legitimate enforcement policies once a system is established. Our proposal to the administration resulted in a $100,000 allocation this summer for bicycle paths.

We are now facing the challenge of using the money most effectively. Although the money could be completely absorbed in planning as it has been in the past, our committee believes it is of the utmost importance to have the money used for the implementation of physical change on campus.

Because we want the best possible plan, we are currently working with the University, the State College Borough and Centre Region Planners.

We now need input from all bicyclists who travel on or off campus. Information is especially needed about common campus access points between the Centre Region and the campus. We welcome any involvement whether it is in the form of suggestions or participation in our committee.

If you are interested please contact Elizabeth Hildebrand at 466-7459 or send a postcard addressing this issue to the USG Office, 203 A HUB, University Park, PA 16802. Please include your name and phone number on the postcard so we can contact you if necessary.