City offers free bike parking

In an effort to encourage more Austinites to ride their bikes for short trips, the city is offering to install free bike parking in the public right-of-way for businesses and property owners that request it. “Installing bike parking on the street frees up valuable sidewalk space and enhances the visibility and attractiveness of nearby storefronts,” notes the Transportation Department. Bicycle corrals are available for curbside parking spaces and U-racks may be installed on existing concrete in the right-of-way. A bicycle corral will accommodate up to 14 bikes in a space that formerly housed a single vehicle. Those who want some greenery may even request a planter with their bike parking. Start by looking over the city’s bike parking guidelines and fill out an online bike parking application.