Getting Around Cornell University

We all make choices according to what is important to us.

Many of us are concerned about

dependence on dwindling oil reserves, and want to reduce petroleum consumption.
air quality and global climate change, and would like to take part in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
the obesity epidemic and the need for physical activity, and want to support walkable and liveable communities.
minimizing stress and maximizing effective use of time and energy.
the expense (time and money) of maintaining and operating an automobile.

Whatever your motivation, the Cornell University campus is an ideal place to try out a car-free lifestyle and to participate in a healthy and sustainable community. Depending on where you are from, you may find getting around Cornell and the Ithaca area somewhat different from your past experience.

To get started on the right foot regarding your transportation options, rights and responsibilities, you should know that the area is:

Beautiful: The Cornell campus is a beautiful place, on a hillside far above Cayuga Lake. The city of Ithaca is located in the valley at the southern end of the lake. Amidst the beauty, you will find yourself making many trips that include going up or down a hill.; Good news though: bus service is excellent on and around campus, to Ithaca and major shopping areas. Plus, all the buses have bike racks.
Big: The main campus covers about 745 acres; many of your trips will require you to travel a fair amount of distance. Many students depend on the frequent and convenient bus service.; See a "bird's eye" virtual tour of the Cornell campus. (520kb Flash movie)
Busy: On an average day at Cornell, about 30,000 pedestrians, 10,000 cars, 5,000 cyclists and hundreds of buses and trucks are all making their way around campus! This poses a significant challenge in maintaining a safe and pleasant environment for all.

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You should also know that

You're going to walk: Thinking you’re going to use a personal car to get around campus is an invitation to frustration. Many find that walking, combined with bicycling and using the bus, is the most convenient and practical way to get around. In fact, the mayor of Ithaca named 2005 the Year of the Pedestrian.
The weather varies: Ithaca's weather runs the gamut from sunny and warm to cold, wet or snowy and windy (sometimes all in the same day).; Being prepared to walk and wait for the bus comfortably in a range of weather conditions will keep you happier and more able to focus on your classes.
To be safe, be seen: For a significant part of the academic year, the sun sets early. Crossing a busy campus street in dark clothes on a dark night…duh!; Getting jackets, packs, etc. in bright colors or reflective materials is a no-brainer. If you bike at night, use a light.; If you are ever uncomfortable with walking on campus at night, the free Blue Light Escort service is available through Cornell Police.
Rush hour happens ten times each day: The campus is not only big and busy; it's filled with people who don't have a lot of time to waste. When you are hoofing along, thinking about getting to your next class on time, you don't want to find yourself stepping out in front of a driver who is just as much in a hurry

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A few points to keep in mind

Don’t make any sudden moves…I don’t wanna hafta hurt ya !: With all this going on, the best way to stay in one piece is to be predictable. Traffic safety is everybody's responsibility. Whether walking, biking, driving, or just getting off the bus, we all help make our community a safer place by knowing the traffic rules and following them.; For info on traffic law and safety tips, check out the Cornell Police web site
Don't let this happen to you: "I had to get my paper in before the deadline." "I didn't leave time to catch a bus." ..."There was no place to park, I just ran in for a minute."..."I got a $50 fine and my car was towed." (EX-PEN-SIVE!); For all these reasons and more, do some research: know your transportation options and plan ahead.
Have a plan: No one expects you to have all the answers when you get here, but you are expected to get the answers.; Here are some links to help you make your transition to the transportation system at Cornell University, and the greater Ithaca area, a pleasant one: