Current Projects

Car Sharing Program

As a way to reduce the number of cars brought to campus, introduce sustainable transportation solutions, provide a cost-effective alternative to car ownership, and to provide a great service to the local community, Luther is currently researching the possibility of bringing a car sharing program to campus in September 2011. 

Carpooling Software

Another sustainable transportation solution Luther is working on is software to make carpooling simple.  Out with the old ride-share boards and in with a new online system that make offering and finding rides easy.  After exploring an expensive carpooling program called Zimride, Luther computer science professor Brad Miller has been working with students to develop software of our own.  Stay tuned for more information regarding this exciting new initiative.

Alternative Fleet Vehicles

Luther has purchased eight hybrid vehicles replacing regular sedans in the vehicle fleet.  Seven vehicles around campus are powered entirely by electricity.  It has been determined that the hybrids and electric vehicles will reduce Luther's greenhouse gas emissions by 80,000 pounds per year.

Luther's crew of student recyclers is now riding greener in a compressed natural gas pickup truck.  This fuel reduces carbon emissions by 35 percent compared to an average pickup.

Bike Share Program

Luther faculty, staff, and students who don't have a personal bike--fear not. Eight bikes are now available to be checked out by the day from Preus Library free of charge. The Bike Share Program is a collaboration between the Sustainability Initiative and Wellness Program to promote physical fitness and reduce pollution emissions from vehicles. Five of the bikes are one-speed commuter bikes, and three bikes are eight-speed bikes more appropriate for longer rides.

Winter Bike Storage

To help promote the use of bicycles as an alternative forms of transportation, Luther offers free winter storage for bicycles.  Bikes are placed in secure, dry storage in the Ashmore-Jewell Barn. The barn will be open for two day in November to accept bikes.  Students can retrieve bikes on Fall Semester Reading Day or two days in Spring yet to be determined.

Rochester/Minneapolis Shuttle Service

The Luther College shuttle service is designed to provide efficient, low-cost transportation for students as they travel to and from the Minneapolis, Minn. area. The shuttle will also stop in Rochester, Minn. if needed.  The shuttle occurs at the beginning and end of each semester and J-term as well as Fall, Thanksgiving, and Spring Break.

For complete information, including drop-off and pick-up locations, shuttle schedule, cost, and online registration visit student life's shuttle service page.