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Travel Sustainably

You can conserve resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve air quality by choosing sustainable transportation options such as walking, biking and public transportation. Northwestern offers facilities and resources that make it easier to take advantage of alternative transportation options.

Walking

When traveling short distances, consider walking rather than driving. Northwestern’s campuses are designed to be pedestrian friendly. Exploring the green features of campus on foot makes for great exercise. Check out Northwestern’s Campus Sustainability Maps for both the Evanston and Chicago campuses here

Biking

Biking is a green and healthy form of transportation. As a level Silver Bike Friendly University, Northwestern is committed to providing an accommodating environment for cyclists and encouraging students, and faculty, and staff in their cycling efforts. The University is working with the cities of Evanston and Chicago to create more protected bike lanes designated bike routes. 

Click here for resources that can help you get going on a bike, including bike maps, cycling groups, and information on discounted membership in the Divvy bike sharing program

Public transportation

Northwestern’s Evanston and Chicago campuses are close to multiple public transportation options including buses, trains, and campus shuttles.

During the academic year, September 1 through June 30, the CTA 201 bus that runs adjacent to the Evanston campus along Sheridan Road is free to students, faculty, and staff with a University-issued Ventra card. Details about the program and obtaining the University- issued Ventra card can be found here.

Check maps and schedules for local public transportation services at the following sites.

Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicle charging stations are available for use on both the Evanston and the Chicago campuses. Locations can be found on the Northwestern Campus Sustainability Maps. There are three easy ways to use the new charging stations:

  1. Call the 800 number located on the cap of the ChargePoint station and pay over the phone with a credit card.
  2. Sign for a free membership with the ChargePoint network and receive a ChargePoint card. After activating the card, simply tap the machine with the card to check in at any ChargePoint charger and begin charging.
  3. Download the ChargePoint mobile application. From the mobile application you can enter your payment information and monitor your vehicle's interaction with the charger remotely.
The policy for using the electric vehicle charging stations on campus can be found on the Transportation & Parking services website.

Campus shuttles

The Campus shuttles are free to students, faculty, and staff with a valid WildCARD. The campus shuttles travel around the Evanston campus, from the Evanston campus to downtown Evanston, and between the Evanston and Chicago campuses. Check schedules and find stops here.

Safe Ride

Safe Ride is a service provided to members of the Northwestern community as a safe and free alternative to walking alone after dark. Rides are available during the academic year when classes are in session. Visit the site to learn more.