Cycling News
NYC Bike Rack Program Lagging

The DOT needs to install more bike racks at subway stops and other popular destinations like the Bedford Avenue L station in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

In July, the NYC DOT released the new CityRacks contract for bidding. The contract calls for the installation of 1,300 racks over the next three years, about 430 racks a year. Compare this to Chicago, which installs 900 racks each year, more than double the NYC Department of Transportation's plan.

The DOT should continue to install bike racks in the unused sidewalk space behind subway station entrances. This placement encourages both bicycling and transit use. According to the Department of City Planning, transit stations are the second most requested location for bicycle parking, behind only parks. In particular, the 1,2,3,9 line subway stations from 66th to 116th Street and L stations from Bedford to Grand Avenue are perfect locations to install bike racks. These neighborhoods are conducive to bike-to-transit trips and the sidewalks are wide or could be widened.

Last summer, the DOT tested 216 "Chicago" style bike racks on New York sidewalks. The new rack design is stronger, easier to lock to and sports a svelte black paint job. Last fall, after reviewing the test racks, the NYC Art Commission-the agency that has jurisdiction over all street furniture in the city-approved the new design.

To request a free CityRack, go to www.transalt.org/cityracks, call 212-442-7687 or write to:

City Racks
40 Worth Street, Room 1035
New York, NY 10013

Read the latest news on this subject.