Bicycle Parking Infrastructure Study
Does Vancouver have enough bike parking amenities?
The VPSN assessed the quality and quantity of bicycle parking infrastructure in Vancouver’s commercial and entertainment districts to determine the need for more, or different, cycling infrastructure. We conducted background research of municipal plans and current parking options, as well as conducted a case study of five sample areas.
You can download the report here. This report was released in July 2009 and is being used to advocate for better infrastructure.Background
Recently, the City of Vancouver has attempted to make Vancouver more bicycle-friendly through the expansion of its bike route network - with even more bike routes and greenways planned for the future. The VPSN believes this network must be coupled with and adequate and comprehensive program of bicycle parking infrastructure.
Bicycle parking infrastructure is a significant part of a comprehensive plan to provide residents with safe and reliable transportation options. Commercial areas are particularly important for bicycle parking given the increased stops that cyclists make on these streets. Such areas may lack the infrastructure required to accommodate the increased capacity of cyclists that the City is encouraging.
Among the benefits that come with adequate bike locking facilities:
- Increased promotion of cycling as a convenient, easy and environmentally-friendly mode of transport;
- Increased opportunity for cyclists to participate in the local economy;
- Reduced opportunities for bicycle theft;
- The visible demonstration of the city (both municipality and community) and its commitment to cycling.
The Project in Brief
Purpose:
Examine the quality and quantity of bicycle parking infrastructure in Vancouver’s commercial and entertainment districts/zones. Are existing amounts adequate? Is there a need for more and different parking infrastructure in the city?
Methods in Brief:
- Research: Audit of parking infrastructure in Vancouver, using a sample of commercial areas
- Evaluate the availability and quality of the bike-locking areas
- Research: municipal bike parking programs (e.g. Toronto – lollipop)
- Determine: is there additional work to be done - i.e. advocating for bike locks
- If so, develop the tools and do so.
For more information on the report and its outcomes, contact
:: karen | at | vancouverpublicspace.ca
:: bike | at | vancouverpublicspace.ca