Metro asking bicyclists to weigh in on new bike parking options before installation later this year

Metro is asking bicyclists to come check out and weigh in on options for our new bike storage solutions at rail stations.

Metro is hosting a public demonstration of the options at the NoMa-Gallaudet U Station on July 10 from 3-7 p.m. The display will be at the northern entrance at 2nd and Florida Ave. NE.

Bicyclists can try out and provide in-person feedback on the options from multiple vendors that include standard and oversized bike lockers and different types of self-locking bicycle racks.

New bicycle parking upgrades will start later this year with phased installations at 74 stations. The project is expected to take several years to complete and will include:

• 450 on-demand bicycle lockers
• 50 oversized on-demand bicycle lockers
• 100 on-demand bicycle racks
• 800 new bicycle racks

On-demand lockers: A new app-based reservation system will allow cyclists to rent lockers by the hour for the first time. Rates will be 5 cents an hour and up to $1 a day. This system provides a secure, inexpensive, and convenient solution for bike parking.

These new models will eventually replace all the current, aging lockers that can only be rented for a year. Customers with existing locker leases will receive advance notice regarding the upcoming removal and construction schedule.

Increased oversized bike parking: Recognizing the growing demand for cargo bike parking, we are expanding the number of oversized bicycle lockers from two to 50. Each of the 74 stations with bike parking will also have two designated oversized bicycle parking spaces marked next to traditional racks.

Self-locking bicycle rack pilot project: We are launching a pilot project featuring smart bicycle racks with a self-locking mechanism that secures the bike at both the wheel and frame. These smart racks will be available free of charge and can be accessed via an app.

Repair stations: To support our bicycle customers further, each of the 74 stations will be equipped with a new repair station for basic bike maintenance and flat tire repairs.

Metro continues to invest in bike parking as we aim to increase the number of customers who bike to stations to 3.5% of all customers by 2030. This initiative is part of Metro's ongoing commitment to improving bike accessibility and enhancing the commuting experience for our customers.

Metro has expanded bike access over the years, adding bike racks on buses in 2002 and allowing bikes on trains at any time in 2019. Previously they were only allowed during off-peak hours. The new 8000-series train will also feature designated areas for bikes, underscoring our commitment to integrating bicycling into our transit system.

For more information on Metro's bike program, visit our bike website.

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