2024 TDM Excellence Awardee: University at Buffalo
University at Buffalo
2024 Higher Education TDM Excellence Awardee
ACT was thrilled to recognize 2024 TDM Excellence Award winner University at Buffalo at the TDM Forum in Charlotte, NC this week. Read below to learn about their impact and accomplishments!
ACT has had the privilege of recognizing many impressive schools over the years, as numerous institutions of higher learning understand the vital role they play within their communities' transportation systems. The University at Buffalo (UB) is dedicated to achieving net zero emissions by 2030 through its "10 in 10" climate plan, which includes significant emphasis in sustainable transportation. With 35% of emissions coming from transportation, UB is focusing on reducing reliance on single-occupancy vehicles through a robust menu of TDM initiatives like shuttle services, bike sharing, carpooling, and public transit. Currently, 48.5% of students and 32% of employees use sustainable commuting options.
UB's shuttle service, the Stampede, provides 2 million annual passenger trips, and the university plans to electrify 40% of its fleet by 2026, cutting bus emissions by 90%. UB stands out as one of the largest on-campus producers of renewable energy, which will be used to charge its electric buses.
UB's bicycling program is a key part of its overall TDM strategy. It offers bike-sharing, cycling infrastructure, maintenance services, and year-round support, including winter storage and cycling education. The program is integrated with the "10 in 10" plan and features extensive bike lanes, parking, and repair stations, as well as incentive programs like Green Your Commute and Bike to Work Day, which promote community engagement and sustainable transportation alternatives.
The University at Buffalo has established itself as a leader in TDM, setting a benchmark for sustainability and innovation that other institutions can follow. One of its most notable achievements is the integration of TDM with on-campus renewable energy production. By powering its EV charging stations and fleet with renewable energy generated on-site, UB has created a model for how universities and organizations can reduce their carbon footprint in transportation.
Beyond clean energy, UB supports cutting-edge research and innovation in sustainable transportation, particularly in cycling. The university’s commitment to research-led improvements in its bicycling program distinguishes it from other institutions. Faculty and students actively explore ways to enhance cycling on campus, contributing to UB’s broader efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly transportation.
UB encourages research and collaboration across its campus, creating subcommittees to focus on specific aspects of its "10 in 10" plan. For example, a "Commute Responsibly" working group is dedicated to studying strategies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions from commuting. UB’s comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to sustainable transportation not only aligns with its values but also serves as a strategic investment in the long-term well-being of the university and its surrounding community.
The results speak for themselves. In addition to the 2 million passengers provided on the Stampede annually, the university’s carpool program records over 700,000 carpool trips annually (that’s nearly 21,000 trips per week). Their Bike Share Program has expanded from 30 to 75 bikes, nearly tripling membership over a four year period. Riders have logged over 11,576 trips in just the first 8 months of 2024.
Most importantly - faculty/staff vehicle registrations have dropped by 6% and student vehicle registrations by 20% in just the past 2 years. These initiatives contribute significantly to UB’s sustainable transportation and environmental goals. These are great achievements and tremendous all around commitment to TDM. Congratulations to the State University of NY Buffalo.
Learn more about the TDM Excellence Awards
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2024 TDM Excellence Awards sponsored by:
