New Haven Independent

Posted by: Greg | November 23, 2009 10:35 AM

I thought that this was a great event, and am very happy that this space is now officially open. My only wish was that a few more people could've been there to check it out.

Posted by: L | November 23, 2009 11:18 AM

Great, now how about some BIKE LANES??!

Posted by: William Kurtz | November 23, 2009 2:32 PM

What a testament to the willingness of city officials to embrace cycling (as well as walking) as a viable means of transportation. New Haven is fortunate to have Mr. Piscitelli at the helm of the traffic department, especially considering how it seems that for many other cities and the state department of transportation, 'traffic' means automobile traffic and nothing more. Congratulations.

Posted by: somehwat impressed | November 23, 2009 3:27 PM

WOW New Haven! This is certainly a step in the right direction. But, 12 spots? Who can use this facility and is it already overbooked? 12 spots is a meager offering compared to the countless parking spots offered at the numerous city garages and lots across town that offer no bike parking. This hinders "multi-modal" transport- I can't ride to my $100 per month garage and leave my bike in a place that will be safe. We've got a long way to go New Haven!

Posted by: anon | November 23, 2009 3:59 PM

I agree - safe bike/walking routes and plentiful bike parking are an absolute must for economic development in New Haven. Every time my friends and I bike or walk somewhere as opposed to drive, I figure that we save about $5-10, which we typically plow directly into the New Haven economy (as opposed to the Saudi Arabian economy) in the form of food purchases, contributions to local nonprofits, clothing and rent payments.

Think of the massive economic impact on this city that would be created if just 5-10% more trips were made on foot or by bike -- very easy to do considering the majority of car trips in New Haven are very short.

This garage is a good sign that the culture is beginning to change, but I definitely agree that more is needed and that the city needs to act much more quickly at implementing these.

For example, the missing crosswalk signal that prevents people from crossing Route 34 on foot -- why is it going to take another year to build that when literally thousands of local pedestrians have been desperately pleading for it for the past five years?

Posted by: Brian Tang | November 23, 2009 10:44 PM

Somewhat,

You should check out the bike racks at Neon Garage on Crown St (operated by ProPark); they're pretty awesome.

I also hear that there are racks in the garage on Audubon St, but that they've been having major issues with bike theft lately (so much for secure parking). Hopefully they figure something out.

I agree that more NHPA (and Yale) lots and garages should offer secure bike parking. Bike lockers scattered around downtown would also help. Perhaps this is something to bring up with the Town Green SSD and/or the Downtown/Wooster Square Community Management Team.

Nevertheless, congrats to the city for achieving such a step forward! This is the definition of "leading by example."

Posted by: Ali | November 24, 2009 12:02 PM

"bike stand, pump and tools for minor repairs, and generous-sized lockers for storing helmets and/or clothing, should one wish to change from cycling to work attire" ...

"access to showers in City Hall, the use of two bicycles for work-related activities, and a free ride home (for city residents) if for whatever reason they can’t cycle"

WOW - good for the City. I am impressed. Yale ought to take notice of these niceties. I'd love a pass to the gym for a shower once in a while or even a locker.

Posted by: anon | November 24, 2009 2:15 PM

I agree, Ali - very impressive. It would be nice if our largest employers took note and copied this plan.