As we hinted at a few weeks ago, TriMet is set to begin construction of their new Bike & Ride facility at the Sunset Transit Center this month. A statement released yesterday said the project will begin June 21st and the facility is expected to be open for business by end of July.
The new Bike & Ride will have 74 secure bike parking spaces, taking up space formerly used for eight motor vehicles (if you drive, don’t worry, the Sunset Transit Center still has 630 car parking spaces).
Here’s a snip from TriMet:
“With tremendous growth in bicycling in the region, there are limited options for commuters to bring bikes onto the transit system during rush hour. TriMet is following the model of bicycle capitals around the world, such as Amsterdam and Copenhagen, that rely on bike parking facilities to make the connection to transit work on a reliable basis.”
As contributor Michael Anderson shared last month, the Bike & Ride will have keycard access and security cameras to keep your ride safe from thieves. Keycards will cost $20, which TriMet says should last about 10 weeks.
TriMet planner and resident bike guy Colin Maher was kind enough to send over some construction drawing (below) along with an explanation:
“… there is one row of 2-tier racks, one row of staple racks, a railing for locking “cargo” bikes, an ADA-accessible bike rack, a repair stand/floor pump, and a bike information/map display case. Security cameras, lighting, and electrical not shown.”
TriMet says they chose the Sunset location for this facility because it’s “one of the most popular stations for riders connecting by bike since the West Hills are a barrier to riding downtown.”
The facility was funded through a $1.1 million federal stimulus grant and is part of a larger “regional Bike & Ride system.” TriMet also has plans for a 100-space facility at Beaverton Transit Center and a 30-space facility in Gresham.