Wheels Off Walkways (WOW) 2.0 Launches 8/21

From: Bob Reuning
To: All-FM
Subject: Wheels Off Walkways (WOW) 2.0 Launches 8/21

Good Morning FM,

Prior to COVID-19, we began working in collaboration with the Division of Administration on an important campus initiative called Wheels Off Walkways (WOW). The goal of WOW was to make campus safer and more accessible by freeing walkways from vehicles while accommodating employees' need to access worksites. Despite this effort, we have continued to see unattended vehicles parked on pedestrian walkways creating unsafe conditions across campus – especially for those with mobility issues. 

Now, with a renewed and strengthened commitment to keeping campus safe and accessible, we are expanding and enhancing this effort and have developed a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) document to serve as a guide. The SOP was created by a cross-functional FM team in collaboration with the university’s Accessibility and Disability Service office. 

Given the size of our campus and the nature of FM work, there may be times when driving or parking on sidewalks and walkways is unavoidable. The new SOP clearly states when and how parking on pedestrian spaces is acceptable and when it’s not. 

The new WOW program will officially launch on Monday, August 21 just in time for the start of the fall semester. Cones and sandwich signs created to support the program will be available at that time and can be picked up in the Sign Shop. You may also request a laminated version of the SOP to keep in your vehicle. Supervisors have been provided information and resources for discussing WOW with staff and can answer any questions you might have. 

As we move forward with this program, it is imperative that each FM team member fully embraces and adheres to the standards put forth in the SOP. By doing so, we not only enhance the overall safety of our campus but also cultivate a culture of responsibility and consideration that ultimately benefits us all.

I appreciate your cooperation and support of this important initiative. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak with your supervisor.

Sincerely,

Bob

Charles R. Reuning, MS, MBA, P.E.
CAPT, CEC, USN (Ret.)
Associate Vice President
University of Maryland
301-405-6214