Next American City covers Pittsburgh’s proposed Bike Parking Ordinance
In Pittsburgh, you might soon see less of this. Image by Ollie Crafoord via flickr.
I’ve locked my bicycle to trees, trashcans, stop signs and street signs, fences, gates and benches. These impromptu bike-parking methods are common in most American cities, as the number of cyclists multiplies at a rate exceeding the still-modest increase of bike parking spaces available. But there are encouraging signs that cities are beginning to address the growing demand for secure bike parking as greater numbers of city dwellers choose the bicycle as their primary form of transportation.
Tom Vanderbilt argued in Slate magazine that safe, secure bike parking is the number one improvement that could make the transition from car-friendly cities to bike-friendly cities, and Pittsburgh has been on the move in the past year to increase the amount of bike parking available. It’s easy to spot the official nods to the city’s cyclists: iconic bike racks that demonstrate Pittsburgh’s strong connection to the three rivers that define its landscape.
IMPORTANT: On Tuesday, February 9 at 1:30, there will be a Public Hearing to discuss the Bike Parking Ordinance. We need you to show up and show support for a bike-friendly Pittsburgh.
Not a member of Bike Pittsburgh? Join today! We need you to add your voice! Bike Pittsburgh works to protect cyclist’s rights and promote the vision of making Pittsburgh a safer and more enjoyable place to live and to ride. For more info, check out: www.bike-pgh.org/membership
