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h3. Name of Concept: Rochester Cycling Ecology


h3. Overview

RIT is in a position to lead Rochester to a sustainable future based on innovative transportation alternatives.   The  RochesterGreenway--an all year bikeway for human-powered and electric\- bikes and trikes could connect RIT, UofR, and downtown Rochester and reduce parking pressures, carbon footprints, obesity rates, dependence on foreign oil.  RIT could also serve as an essential link in a 230 mile Rochester Williamsport Greenway now under serious governmental consideration thanks to our efforts.

h3. How this idea leverages current areas of RIT expertise

The Rochester Cycling Ecology project is already a flagship enterprise of the Center for Student Innovation.

Components include
* RochesterGreenway (Lehigh Valley North Branch up to U of R, and downtown)
* the new on campus bikeway to be developed this summer
* the RIT Tweenway that would encompass the campus bikeway, the Genessee Valley Greenway and the LehighValley North Trail
* the design of innovative ultralight electric vehicles suitable for the RochesterGreenway

h3. Main RIT on-campus champion(s) for this idea

Jon Schull, Center for Student Innovation

h3. Additional on-campus champions willing to collaborate with this individual and take a lead role in driving the idea

Witold Bujak and Mitch Rosen

h3. Is there potential off-campus advocacy and support for the idea?

Yes, City of Rochester, Rochester Cycling Alliance, Rochester Sierra Club, Gennesee Transportation Council, Rails to Trails Conservancy

h3. Are you aware of another university that is working on a similar idea?

Active Transportation is becoming big, but this situation is unique.

h3. How you envision this idea advancing RIT's national or global stature in an important or emerging field

Prospects for passage of the Active Transportaiton Act (ACT act) are good and would result in $50 million grants to EACH of 40 American Cities.   Conversation and collaboration with the Rails to Trails conservancy suggests our leadership could put Rochester near the top of the queue.

h3. Why you believe RIT has a unique opportunity or an ability to differentiate itself through this idea

A canopied greenway, a fleet of locally developed ultralight vehicles, the establishment of Rochester as a world class cycling city, and social and sustainable innovation could all come together here in a distinctly "RIT" fashion.

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