This academic year, Transportation Services has made it optional, but encouraged, to register for a bicycle permit. Tomorrow at 10 a.m., Transportation Services will be holding this year’s first Bike Summit Forum to inform students, faculty and staff about changes to the bicycle policy, and will also answer questions.

Currently, bicycle permits are free and can be applied for online or at 101 Student Services Center.

Ronnie Robertson, director of Transportation Services, said there are benefits to registering for a permit.

“Bicycle registration allows the University to contact the owner if the bike is removed or if a bike is lost or stolen and later recovered,” Robertson said. “Incentives include a reduction in bike thefts and return of bicycles in the event they are lost or stolen.”

Alex Montoya, a junior and treasurer of the Cycling Club, said that he understands the reasoning behind the policy, but that there is a better way to solve the problem.

“It’s a hassle,” Montoya said. “People are trying to just get to class, and not having to worry about parking or getting a fine … I’m not opposed to walking if this policy becomes mandatory in the future.”

Michael Thomas, a freshman that recently registered his bike, said he supports the new policy.

“It’s not tough, and it’s free. I don’t have any problem with it,” Thomas said.

Cathy Andreen, a UA spokeswoman, said there are no plans to charge for bike registration at this time, and that they have not determined when or if registration will become mandatory for bicyclists.

For students concerned that their bikes may be confiscated in the future for being improperly parked, Robinson offered some consolation. Robertson said that University officials are currently not confiscating improperly parked bikes, however, they are providing a warning to those unregistered bicycles they find.

“Currently we are not enforcing any rules regarding unregistered bikes, but instead are placing flyers on bikes which are parked or locked to areas other than bike racks in accordance with the policy,” he said.

Sept. 13, 10 a.m.—Ferguson Mortar Board Room

Sept. 13, 4 p.m.—Ferguson Center Forum

Sept. 20, 10 a.m.— Ferguson Room 312

Sept. 20, 6 p.m.—Rec Center Student Activity Room

Sept. 21, 10 a.m.—Ferguson Center Forum

Sept. 21, 6 p.m.—Rec Center Student Activity Room