Level of Education of Students Involved
Undergraduate
Faculty Sponsor
Jay Grossman
College
College of Engineering (COE)
Discipline(s)
Civil Engineering
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Symposium Date
Spring 4-24-2025
Abstract
This paper evaluates the need and potential benefits of creating micromobility routes on the Valparaiso University campus. Student education on college campuses is supported by not only the faculty and staff who run the campus, but by the infrastructure that enables its daily functions. A crucial part of this infrastructure comes in the form of transportation routes, including: sidewalks, walking paths and roads. On these routes, diverse modes of transportation interact, at times with varying levels of cohesiveness. Challenges can occur when these modes of transportation conflict, leading to a decrease in user comfort and safety. With its vast and luscious green spaces across maturing landscapes, Valparaiso University has created an above-average campus environment, appealing and accessible to pedestrians and vehicles alike. One mode of transportation in growing demand that was not planned for on VU’s campus is micromobility, which includes electric scooters, one-wheels and other electric powered options, as well as bicycles. Oftentimes, micromobility users are required to use either walking paths or roads to get around, and in doing so they interfere with pedestrians and vehicles respectively. The addition of a micromobility routes across Valparaiso University’s campus will provide safe routes for these users. This would also encourage more outdoor activity, and reduce transportation time for pedestrians or bus riders. This paper highlights the importance and benefits to implementing routes on campus and proposes possible routes offering students, faculty, staff, and our community a safe and efficient transit route that is accessible for all.
Recommended Citation
Melo, Veronica and McMahon, Connor, "Micromobility Paths at Valparaiso University" (2025). Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression (SOURCE). 1447.
https://scholar.valpo.edu/cus/1447
