ZAP UMC Bike Commuting Program
What is ZAP?
The ZAP UMC Bike Commuter Program uses ZAP hardware and software - an automated bike commuting recognition system pioneered at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities campus. It is an effortless way of verifying and logging bike trips, then rewarding and incentivizing bicycle commuters with prizes and Wellness rewards.
How Does the System Work?
A small tag attached to two front wheel spokes is recognized by a strategically placed ZAP reader installed on the bike/hike path parallel to Widseth Field on the UMC campus. In this way, we capture nearly any bike trip in and out of the campus. Riders passing within 30 feet of the reader will hear a beep, indicating they have been "Zapped."The trip data are uploaded to the web, making it accessible to the cyclist and the administrator of the program.
How to Get Zapped
Look for where the antenna is pointing, that is usually the "sweet spot' for reads. That is generally 5'-15' from the actual pole on the bike/hike trail. Do NOT bike directly under the pole or on the opposite side of where the antenna is pointing. See Zap Zone diagram at left.
You should hear a "beep" if you have been read. Generally trip data will be uploaded to your personal calendar within 15 minutes but on occasion it may take longer.
You only need one ZAP per day to get your credit for that day. More than one ZAP per day will not add to your mileage or total trips.
Where can I get Zapped? See map
What if I have more than one bike? No problem, you can have several bikes associated with your account. Take your un-tagged bike to the Center for Sustainability in Hill Hall 109 and get another tag. Email us with your new tag number and you're set.
If you are doing everything right and can't figure out why you aren't getting Zapped, please contact us at 612-359-0689 or tony@dero.com
Why Bicycles?
Studies have shown that bicyclists are healthier and more productive employees, and cycling is less costly to the cyclist, his/her employer and the city.
Currently we do not have a bike rental program on the UMC campus, but the measures that are recorded with the Zap hardware and software could be used to help gain support and funding needed to expand such initiatives.
The time is right to shift bike transportation into high gear and begin to reward bike commuters. The ZAP program makes this possible.
What Do I Need to Do?
- Get your bike(s) tagged at the Center for Sustainability in Hill Hall Room 109. A tag will be attached to the front wheel of your bike and a Center for Sustainability worker will take your registration information from you. After submitting your registration it will be processed and you should receive an email with instructions for activating your account within 2-3 days.
- Bike to campus past the ZAP reader, located on the bike/hike trail parallel to Widseth Field. (See Map ......) There is only one Zap reader on the UMC campus as of now, but there are only two entrances to campus so you shouldn't have to go out of your way to get Zapped.
- Employees can earn Wellness rewards and students can win cool stuff. You can also form teams for competition and track your miles, CO2 saved, and calories burned on your personal ZAP web page.
Cool Bike Stuff and Engaging Program
Every month the University will be rewarding bike commuters who commute at least 8 times that month with cool stuff.
Cash! The Wellness Program and Center for Sustainability are teaming up to offer any UPlan medical program member an incentive to bike to work. After 40 completed rides, before the August 31, 2012 deadline, bicycle commuter may earn 50 points for his or her Wellness Points Bank and a $65 wellness reward. 40 rides must be completed by August 31, 2012. On Sept. 1, the ride count starts from 0 again for the 2013 program year. Similar programs are being used at the U of M, Duluth and U or M, Twin Cities for more information follow link: More Details...
Who We Are
We are the Center for Sustainability and our mission is to facilitate safe and convenient access to the University while promoting alternative modes of transportation. The ZAP UMC Bike Commuter Program has a goal of increasing bike commuting between the campus and the community.
Questions?
For more information give us a call at 218-281-8128 or email us at sulli495@umn.edu
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