January 13, 2010
(Albany, NY) – The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) and the Capital District Transportation Committee have collaborated to introduce a new program to the Capital Region offering free approved bike racks to both public and non-profit sectors. The program offers up to a $1,000 subsidy through Travel Demand Management grants. The private sector is also eligible for a 50% cost-share of approved bike racks.
Applicants can choose from over 70 designs, ranging from traditional hoop or bike hitch racks to animals, sports or food related designs. Bicycle rack installations can earn LEED credits to be used toward LEED certification by the Green Building Council.
Provision of appropriate bicycling amenities, such as safe parking, encourages people to bike and adds convenience for the entire cycling community: businesses, commuters, shoppers, messengers and food deliverers and students.
“The Capital Region Bike Rack Program works hand in hand with the goals of public transportation; improving our quality of life and reducing single occupancy vehicle commutes,” said CDTA Chairman David Stackrow. “Businesses have the opportunity to expand their client base and improve customer satisfaction by providing close and convenient bicycle parking.” All of CDTA’s 200+ regular route fleet are equipped with double bicycle racks to promote intermodal travel.
“We are pleased to collaborate with CDTA on this very important effort that will greatly benefit the cycling travel environment by providing safe bicycle parking options throughout the region, said Capital District Transportation Committee (CDTC) Staff Director John Poorman. “The Program is consistent with the Region’s Long Range Transportation Plan—New Visions and its principles, strategies and actions.”
Program applications for 2010 are due by Friday, March 12th and must be approved using the criteria based on travel demand management goals underscored by the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality program offered through the Federal Transit Administration. The annual program budget has a $50,000 limit.
A selection committee will review all applications received by the Friday, March 12, 2010 deadline to ensure they meet all requirements. Bike racks will be available to successful applicants in May. Recipients will be responsible for installation, any additional costs beyond the cost limit and obtaining all necessary permits.
Travel demand management programs are designed to improve quality of life by encouraging travel options other than single occupancy vehicle commutes, like taking
buses, carpooling, walking and biking, all of which improve personal health reduce single
occupant vehicle (SOV) travel, fuel consumption, air pollution and parking demand.
To learn more about CDTA’s bike rack program, obtain program application,visit www.cdtcmpo.org, email: bikerackprogram@cdta.org or call CDTA at 518-437-6865 or CDTC at 518-458-2161.