Northern Illinois University’s “Vision 2020” initiative executive summary is vague and lacks specific direction.  In this summary, there is no mention of the functionality of  thoroughfares pertaining to bicycle paths. Included in the 2020 Initiative is the agenda to increase school enrollment to 30,000 students by the year 2020.  This does not address the sustainable transportation methods that are available at other universities such as the installation of bicycle paths. For students on a tight budget, bicycles are a low-cost, zero pollution alternative to driving. Bicycle paths provide a safe, eco-friendly means of transportation and encourage “pedal power” as an alternative to driving which increases greenhouse gases (GHG) with auto emissions.  It also comes down to campus safety, Bike lanes will improve safety for bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorists. NIU fails in comparison to other institutions that have already implemented such safety plans, which makes the university far behind in regards to sustainability and campus initiatives. NIU appears to be more concerned with “economic sustainability” than coordinating with the concept of environmental sustainability.  When bike lanes are eventually installed on campus, not only will the university fulfill its goal to improve campus image, but it will also be a more sustainable and eco-friendly university, something to be proud of.The Green Paws Environmental Alliance will be sponsoring a Courteous Mass bike ride this friday, 2/24 at 5:00 p.m. leaving from the convocation center. If you would like to get involved, or get more information, email Eric Sterling at [email protected].