Bike Racks in downtown

[adefonzo]

While mentioning the bus stop discussion from last weeks workshop meeting, it reminded me that there was something else mentioned that night which made me raise my eyebrows...maybe someone can clear it up for me.

There was discussion about the fact that the Rotary Club apparently donated about $2000 for the purchase of bike racks for downtown, which they are hoping would help alleviate the congestion of bikes that are stacked hap-hazardly all over by the bus stop. These create one of the many eye-sores that Councilman Schnurr was mentioning in his talk about cleaning up that area.

Apparently this donation was made sometime back around March? (I believe that's what Councilman Schnurr said)

According to Councilman Kane, these bike racks were still not even ordered because "they"(not sure who "they" are) were still trying to decide on a design that would match the "decor of Main Street."

Sounds like it's taking a bit long to pick a design for a bike rack...but alright...

What made me scratch my head was when they started talking about where these bike racks were going to be placed.

I would think that since so much time has been put into deciding on a design that would match Main Streets "decor", the racks would be placed somewhere on Main St...or at least just off Main St where people would notice that they blend in seamlessly with our downtown...apparently I don't understand the intricacies of bike racks.

According to Councilman Kane, none of the bike racks will be placed on Main St. In fact, they are looking at areas that are well out of the public's view (they mentioned behind the 6-12 store as one possibility) for placement of these racks.

Again...I am apparently just oblivious to the world of bike racks...but if we're placing them in locations that are being picked because they are out of the public's general site...why have we wasted so much time (and I'm sure money as well) to choose a design that matches the decor of Main St?? Why didn't we just get the bike racks here so that we can offer a better location for people to chain up their bikes where it won't be so unsightly?

[stffgpr2003]

well out of the public's view (they mentioned behind the 6-12 store as one possibility) for placement of these racks.

Better that they be attractive. But, for the record, I will not support the placement of additional Bike Racks, where they will be unsightly. There is no shortage of places that bikes can be parked and chained, close to common destinations and still out of public view.

Marc

[admin]

For Andrew,

Here is a post from the past about this topic. Read it very carefully. Take note of the date and names in the article.

freeholdvoice.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=anythingfreeholdborough&action=display&thread=2942

[admin]

On the topic of bikes in the boro. On this site we often talk about things like safety and bike racks. One thing is missing and is long overdue for discussion in this town- recreation riding.

I plan on addressing this issue with our towns Recreation Committee in the near future. I have several ideas and hope they are receptive toward taking the reigns on this issue. More and more people are buying and riding bikes around. Part of this is because of gas prices. Having a town that can and will accommodate bike friendly streets is a good idea. Being a small town, this is a nice place to ride around in a casual way. With some planning and consideration, the recreation experience can be enhanced.

The issue of bike racks is a good one. Encourage people to ride. Imagine bike racks in front of town hall where people who want to attend the meetings have a safe place to lock up their bikes.

How about some racks in locations where people can attend Kruize Nite or the Concert series on their bikes.

There are other good ideas, but the racks will make it a more bike friendly town. Not a bad thing.

[adefonzo]

Good to see that bit of history, Brian. Interesting to see who was "spearheading" this for the Rotary Club. As you mentioned in that thread, I have to give credit where it's due...and the Rotary Club along with Frank Freyre deserve a pat on the back for the donation.

Of course, it also points out that the donation was made possibly as far back as January...which further begs the question...what's the hold-up?

It was interesting to see that the article says the bike racks were to be placed behind the bus station as well as other locations. It seems to me that "behind the bus station" would still be in plain view from Main St as well as (obviously) Throckmorton St.

Again...I am just wondering how complex an issue can it possibly be to purchase and place bike racks that it has taken over 6 months to even decide on a design and location for these things?? We haven't even gotten to the "ordering and installing" part yet.

As for your idea about recreational riding...it is an excellent one. Our town can be very pleasant to ride through on a sunny weekend, or even after work during the week. Keep us posted on your progress with the Recreation Committee.

[lisas84]

When the racks are installed, would it be inappropriate to admire them and say, "Nice rack!" ??

[admin]

Jul 28, 2008 18:31:30 GMT -5 lisas84 said:

When the racks are installed, would it be inappropriate to admire them and say, "Nice rack!" ??

I would say yes. and it sounds like good practice. and the rack won't hit you!

[bergsteiger]

Jul 28, 2008 18:31:30 GMT -5 lisas84 said:

When the racks are installed, would it be inappropriate to admire them and say, "Nice rack!" ??

I hope they are medium size on a thin frame needing no support. ;D