SAIC has a robust biking culture that reflects a strong commitment to lower carbon transit and healthy lifestyles. Many students, faculty and staff bike to campus every day. SAIC provides resources to support their ability to ride confidently and safely.
Bike Parking and Other Resources
Bike Storage and Locations
There are city-managed bike racks in front of each of SAIC’s primary buildings available for use by the SAIC community and the general public.*
The 280 Building at 280 South Columbus Drive offers sheltered outdoor bike racks and a bike repair station with an air pump.
The Lakeview Building at 116 South Michigan Ave houses a bike room that is available to AIC and SAIC staff and faculty. The bike room is accessible during regular building hours, Monday-Friday from 7am-10pm. Employees are required to complete a one-time, fifteen-minute orientation to receive key access to use the facility. Email wporter@saic.edu to sign up for an orientation.
Jones Hall and the 162 Residences have bike rooms that can accommodate 30+ bicycles. They are available for long-term storage by current residents and are accessible 24/7. All residents have access with their ARTICard and can store their bikes throughout the school year.
*Please note that bikes left on city-managed bike racks for an extended period of time are subject to removal by the Chicago Department of Transportation.
U-Lock Checkout
Emergency U-Lock checkouts are available at security desks in the Sharp Building, MacLean Center, and the 280 Building. U-Locks can be checked out for 24 hours, but must be checked out again for longer periods of use.
Bike to Work Challenge
The Bike Commuter Challenge (BCC) is an opportunity for staff and faculty of the Art Institute of Chicago (museum, school, and central administration) to raise awareness of the environmental and health benefits of commuting by bike. The team has won the 500+ Employees education category four times in recent years.
Come June, register for free and log your commutes on the Bike to Work Challenge website to keep the wins coming.
SAIC's Divvy Discount
SAIC has a partnership with Divvy Bikes that provides students, staff and faculty with discounted annual memberships. Students receive a $75 annual membership and staff and faculty receive an $89 annual membership.
Getting the Discount
Students: Visit Divvy’s Become a Member page to register for a Divvy account. Use your SAIC email (@artic.edu) and enter "SAICBikes" in the Partner Password field to complete registration and receive the discount.
Staff & Faculty: Email Jennifer Feulner (jfeulner@artic.edu) with “Divvy Gift Code” in the subject line to receive a gift certificate code to use at Divvy’s Corporate Membership page at checkout. For general questions about the bikes, stations or system, email customerservice@divvybikes.com.
Bike Resources
If you are new to the road or a seasoned vet, below are some helpful guides, maps, tips, and tricks for city cycling.
Benefits of Biking
Budget Benefits: Daily Savings Calculator
Budget Benefits: Long Term Savings Calculator
Chicago Bike Map [PDF]
Commuting by Bike: Costs & Requirements
Safe Cycling in Chicago - A Guide for Cyclists [PDF]
