We here at BostonBiker.org have been bitching calling for on street bike parking for a long time. The idea being that some brave, and forward looking business would trade in one car parking space for 10 or more on street bike parking spaces. I have long thought that the first to go would be a cafe. Take out the car, gets the cafe a better view, less exhaust, and bike riders eat a lot of food…so it is no surprise that local bike mecca The Other Side Cafe was the first to take the plunge!

From Da mayors Facebook page

The Other Side Cafe on Newbury Street gets a new on-street bike rack this morning. Removing one metered parking space, has made room for 12 bikes. Special thanks to Richard and Sarra Lederman of Lederman Engineering, Boston Transportation Department, Boston Public Works for the work this morning.

At first I was a little confused by the design, but then I started to get it. I guess it is supposed to be a “school” of bikes, hence the fish head. I was wondering why they had the high back and the fish stuff on the sides is actually there to protect the parked bikes from cars. My only criticism of this amazing structure is that when bikes are parked on the fish head (cause admit it you know they will be) you will have to access the parking from the sidewalk, a minor quibble. Overall I see this as an AMAZING first step and can’t wait to see other businesses follow!

(hat tip to BUbikes for once again being on top of the game, be sure to check out their awesome site)

Thats right, Boston may be playing catch up, but it just got it’s very first bike lanes. There will be a media event next Tuesday (August 5th) at 11:00am to announce them.

This will be a press event to announce the new bike lanes on Comm Ave. between Kenmore Square and the BU Bridge. The Mayor will be speaking along with David Watson, MassBike’s executive director. It would be really great if a bunch of bicyclists could show up by 10:45. I don’t know the exact location but just look for the media trucks along that stretch of Comm Ave (my guess would be the plaza in front of Marsh Chapel?)

This should be a fun time, and hopefully a sign of things to come.

EDIT: More details below

Tuesday August 5th
11:00 AM
640 Commonwealth Ave
Courtyard, BU School of Communications

Topics: Commonwealth Avenue Bike Lanes, Rack installations…and one
item yet to be announced.

Please feel free to invite cycling friends and family, and bring your
bikes, of course.