Letter to Editor by Don Thornton

I am writing in response to the Sept. 9 article “New rules for moped riders cause concern”. I would like to clarify some points made in the article.

As the article says, moped and scooter riders must now obtain an M permit, which allows them to park in moped/motorcycle parking areas designated by signs and/or green lines. The article states the M permit is $8 per month. However, it neglects to mention that the fee does not apply to students, faculty and staff who already have a motor vehicle permit.

During the planning phase of this policy, Parking & Transportation Services (PTS) found that 15 of our 20 benchmark institutions require mopeds to park in motorcycle/moped parking areas, with another school stated to begin a similar program in 2010.

Our staff also conducted two separate surveys of mopeds on campus. During each count, we found that a surprisingly low number of mopeds (6% and 4%) were secured in any way. However, to address this concern, PTS is in the process of ordering moped racks to be placed in key moped/motorcycle parking areas around campus. These are expected to be installed within the next few weeks.

PTS is working hard to accommodate the increased number of mopeds on campus. During the summer months alone, our department has added 12 new moped/motorcycle parking areas, comprising over 70 spaces.

With the increased use of alternative transportation on campus, the change in policy is designed to encourage safe operating and parking procedures for moped and scooters and free up bicycle parking areas for bicycle-only parking.

Don Thornton

Director, Parking & Transportation Services