Bikes Don't Grow on Trees

cyclists put them there because there aren't enough bike racks

by: Heidi Kraemer

    Local businesses have the ability to appease a whole bunch of irritated bicyclists, increase their traffic, and even save trees with one simple act: adding a bike rack. Over the past few years, trees in downtown Eau Claire have started blooming bikes as well as leaves. This is a protest/demonstration from the cycling community about the lack of parking. Bikers hoist their bikes into trees to prove their point.

    Besides looking kinda neat, these demonstrations have caused the City of Eau Claire to look seriously at this issue. The city council-approved Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Committee plan specifically states that the city should work toward providing an “appropriate number of bicycle parking spaces” at all city buildings and public areas. Along with parking places, the city also plans to add more bike lanes and signs to promote safer and more educated drivers.

    “You know, some people say bike racks aren’t attractive, that they detract from natural beauty,” says Bob Eierman, BPAC president. “Well, parking lots aren’t attractive, but we have plenty of those!”

    The BPAC plan states that businesses must provide some kind of parking facility for bicyclists. Plus the simple act of adding a bike rack is just plain smart from a business perspective.

    Not only would it keep the trees in good condition, but the base of the population commuting by bike is on the upswing and you’ll be inviting those people to stop in front of your business to park their bike, and these are active customers that are grateful for your gesture – positive impacts that, all told, could very well lead to increased traffic, business, and revenue. All from a bike rack.