The City of Nelson is seeking design proposals for bike racks, to be installed in five locations in downtown Nelson.
Entries are encouraged to be as creative as possible, while meeting the need for racks that are durable, easy to install, affordable, and use sidewalk space efficiently. The deadline for applications is March 6. Full application details are available here.
“This is a great opportunity for local artists and designers to explore the world of industrial design,” says cultural development officer Joy Barrett. “Not only are they creating something artistically unique to Nelson, they have to balance form with function. That means a bike rack that is easy to use, lasts a long time, and will hold up under the rigors of use and abuse.”
In September 2013 the City of Nelson published their Bicycle Parking Design Guidelines, which were developed to encourage more bike parking.
According to the 2011 census, 3.8 per cent of Nelsonites bicycle to work, significantly more than the provincial average of 2.1 percent. This indicates a need for bicycle facilities, and shows there is potential to increase bicycle travel in the city. One way to help people choose to cycle more and more often is to provide facilities such as excellent bicycle parking.
“Providing more bicycle parking is one of several strategies aimed at increasing active transportation options,” says city councillor Donna Macdonald. “And of course, we want to do that in a creative and beautiful way and support our local artists and artisans.”
The City of Nelson’s cultural development committee will oversee the process, from adjudication to construction oversight and installation.
— This story will appear in a coming issue of the West Kootenay Advertiser.