Concerns generated over bicycle rack costs

By RICHARD ROLKE Morning Star Staff Jan 28 2007 Vernon Morningstar

Calls to make cycling more accessible to commuters is running into some rough terrain. At least one member of the Greater Vernon Services Committee is expressing concerns about a proposal to purchase bicycle racks and lockers with tax dollars. “A lot of people can say theft of a bicycle is high but if public money is going in that vein, it seems excessive,” said director Barry Beardsell of lockers costing $1,000 per bike. The Vernon Cycling Advisory Committee has asked GVSC to add $10,000 to its 2007 budget for bike racks and lockers to address security issues.“The inability to lock up a bike and the fear of it being stolen keeps people from biking,” said Brigitt Johnson, with the cycling advisory group.

Beyond lockers that contain entire bicycles, racks cost between $50 and $100 per bike. “Maybe at beaches we need more racks and individual lockers for backpacks and bike seats,” said Johnson. Johnson suggests costs could be lowered through corporate partnerships or renting the lockers out. Among the areas identified as possible sites for bicycle lockers and racks are Kal Beach and Polson Park. “Bicycling clearly has health benefits for the community and it improves air quality,” said Johnson of getting vehicles off roads.