Transportation
Emissions related to commuting by faculty, staff, and students are included in the University's carbon footprint calculation each year. In an effort to reduce the need for vehicles on campus, the University offers great support for sustainable transportation.
University of Richmond has free campus shuttles that leave from campus on consistent intervals throughout the day to transport faculty, staff, and students to destinations throughout the city of Richmond. We partner with RideFinders to assist with carpooling and offer car sharing through the 5 Zipcars.
For members of the campus community with electric vehicles, please visit the Electric & Hybrid Vehicles webpage to learn more about EV charging stations and designated hybrid vehicle parking.
Environmental Justice
Traffic congestion significantly contributes to poor air quality and noise pollution. Communities impacted by poor air quality experience increased rates of respiratory issues and asthma. Public transportation services help mitigate vehicle emissions and congested roadways. Environmental justice concerns in transportation emerge as some communities are more likely to disproportionately receive improved services and funding over vulnerable communities most affected by air pollution.
Transportation Options
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Get out on walking trails around campus
There are four mapped trails on campus, three around the lake and one that goes all the way to the James River. You can view a map of all four trails here.
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Maintain your bike on campus
If you have a flat tire or need to tighten up a loose brake cable, basic maintenance is just a short walk away. There are two self-repair stations include all the tools necessary to perform basic bike repairs and maintenance. The fix-it stations are located in front of the Weinstein Center and at the Gateway apartments.
Detailed guide on bike functions and repairs -
Use GRTC buses to commute or travel around town for free
The GRTC bus is currently free to all users. Get information on the bus routes to and from campus here. More information is provided on the transportation website.
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Ride the Campus Shuttle
The Campus Shuttle takes you around UR and around the city, all you need is your UR ID. The shuttle routes include:
- Daily Connector
- Campus Loop (a nightly shuttle running from 8:00pm-midnight)
- Spider Mall Crawl
GRTC Bus 77 also makes daily stops on campus.
View route details and updates on the Transportation website.
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Carpool when commuting or traveling off-campus or out of town
You can use Ridefinders to find carpooling options.
You can also rent a Zipcar on campus.
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Choose a train instead of a plane
Traveling by train can be a more affordable, relaxed, and environmentally friendly experience than traveling by plane. Trains have much lower greenhouse gas emissions than planes and offer more legroom and great scenery along the way. There are two Amtrak stations in Richmond.
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Purchase offsets for air travel
Air travel produces more greenhouse gas emissions than car, train, or bus travel, but sometimes you have to travel by plane. When you do, you can purchase offsets through companies like Cool Effect or Terrapass based on the length of your flight and money from your purchase is put towards sustainable projects like tree planting, landfill gas capture, and renewable energy.
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Consider a hybrid or electric car
Hybrid and electric cars produce fewer emissions than gas or diesel powered vehicles. If you’re planning to purchase a car soon, learn about the benefits of hybrid and electric vehicles through Drive Electric RVA or Drive Electric Virginia.