With thousands of faculty, staff, and students on campus each day, Virginia Tech encourages the use of alternative transportation options and is proud to be at the forefront of reducing our carbon footprint and embracing sustainable modes of transportation. The safe usage of these alternative transportation options is critical to maximizing their benefit to our campus community. With the increase in the use of electronic personal assistance mobility devices (EPAMDs) on campus, including electronic bicycles, scooters, and skateboards, it is important that they are operated in a safe manner and in accordance with university regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Policy 5005?
Policy 5005 promotes the safe use of bicycles and personal transportation devices as forms of alternative transportation, which enhances the university’s goals for a more sustainable campus. This policy establishes responsibilities and procedures to ensure pedestrian safety, proper vehicular operation, and enforcement of bicycles, unicycles, skateboards, E-scooters, in-line skates, roller skates, mopeds, motor scooters and electronic personal assistance mobility devices (EPAMDs) on campus, as well as parking regulations. This policy applies to Virginia Tech faculty, staff, students, and visitors to the Blacksburg campus.
Why can’t I store my EPAMD or E-Scooter in any university building, including my office or residence hall?
As a fire-safety precaution, E-Scooters and EPAMDs, including hoverboards, and the chargers for these devices are not permitted to be stored inside any university-owned or leased buildings.
Why can’t I charge my EPAMD or E-Scooter in any university building, including my office or residence hall?
As a fire-safety precaution, E-Scooters and EPAMDs, including hoverboards, and the chargers for these devices are not permitted to be charged inside any university-owned or leased buildings. These devices are also not permitted for charging at any exterior outlets on university-owned or leased facilities. Charging for these devices will need to be done off-campus.
Where can I store my electric scooter?
E-Scooters and EPAMDs, including hoverboards, and the chargers for these devices are not permitted to be stored inside any university-owned or leased buildings; therefore, for continued compliance, students living on campus can campus lock their devices on a bike rack, store them off-campus, or at home. For students off-campus students, you may lock your devices on a bike rack and store them off-campus or at home.
What if I need an electronic personal assistance mobility device for medical purposes?
I count on my electric scooter to get me quickly across campus. What are my other options?
Blacksburg Transit operates buses and shuttles to help you maneuver on campus. Non-motorized transportation, like bicycles, may be another sustainable option.
What is the consequence of not adhering to Policy 5005?
Students who do not adhere to or violate Policy 5005 can be referred to the Office of Student Conduct. For faculty and staff who do not adhere to 5005 are subject to adjudication consistent with the faculty or employee handbook.
