Bike Manchester launches 50/50 bicycle rack program

Feb. 28 deadline to apply for a bike rack near you

In an effort to encourage more bicycling in the city, Bike Manchester is offering bike racks at 50 percent of the cost.

Funded by a grant from the Central New Hampshire Bicycling Coalition, the 50/50 Bike Rack Program allows a commercial property owner, business or nonprofit to apply for a bike rack on their private property or a public sidewalk nearby for $200.

The idea is the more bike racks visible in the city, the “more people will be encouraged to ride bicycles more often to more destinations,” says a press release from Bike Manchester, a group of bicycle enthusiasts that formed in 2013.

The effort is starting out small, with just 15 racks that will provide parking for two bicycles.

“Bicycling is on the rise in Manchester and businesses that make it easier for bicyclists to park safely and securely will reap the economic rewards,” says Bike Manchester lead organizer Will Stewart.

Bike Manchester has partnered with the City of Manchester Department of Public Works to ensure all proposed sidewalk locations meet the city’s approval. Sidewalks on public locations will become the property of the City of Manchester, while those who apply for racks on private property will assume responsibility for future maintenance and upkeep.

A contractor selected by the City of Manchester Department of Public Works will permanently install all of the bike racks.

The deadline to apply for a bike rack is Saturday, Feb. 28. Businesses can apply at bikemht.com/application.

Priority will be given to proposed bike rack locations that are most visible to the public, are accessible to bicyclists and on the strength of the applicant’s plans to promote bike rack use to their customers, employees and/or commercial tenants.