The University did not join Metropolitan Council Transit Operations on Thursday in promoting the sixth annual Bus, Bike, Or carPool day, known as B-bop day.
In the past, the University has promoted the event, handing out stickers and T-shirts and sponsoring contests. Contest prizes have included a computer, bikes and gift certificates.
Bob Baker, University director of Parking Services, said one reason his office is not promoting this year’s event is that it is focusing attention on design changes proposed in March for the Route 13 and 52 commuter buses.
The proposals include a new intercampus bus shuttle system as well as an end to the Route 52 commuter system by June 1997. A final decision for this proposal is tentatively scheduled for this week.
Baker said promoting B-bop day does not significantly change ridership patterns, because most people have already established commuting routines to campus by this time of year.
“We decided to redirect our efforts to the fall,” he said, when more people will be likely to try something new.
A rally at the Capitol celebrating B-bop day drew several hundred people, said Jan Rosenthal, B-Bop Coalition chairwoman.
The event started in 1990 as a way to promote biking to work as an alternative to driving alone. Eventually the name changed to include other commuter options.
B-bop promoters say there are environmental benefits in switching from a single-passenger vehicle to an alternative means of travel.
A car carrying one person releases more exhaust emissions per person than a bus carrying seven riders, according to information released by the Metropolitan Council.
Motor vehicle emissions contribute to carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide pollution in the atmosphere. Nitrogen oxide causes acid rain, smog and global warming.