Community Board 6 last week voted unanimously to support a proposal that will make it easier for cyclists to find parking, at least in all large, new buildings.
The Department of City Planning proposed the measure, which seeks to mandate bicycle parking in all large, new buildings.
The proposed text amendment to the city’s Zoning Resolution would require indoor, secure bicycle parking in new multi-family residential, community facilities, and commercial buildings in all zoning districts.
“The proposed regulations would support and encourage bicycle ridership by providing a secure and enclosed place to store bikes at home and at work,” Richard Jacobs, a planner with DCP recently told Board 18. DCP is going around to boards across the city, seeking their recommendation.
The proposal is part of a multi-agency effort and is a key component of the mayor’s PlaNYC 2030, an initiative whose goal is to improve the “overall fitness” of New Yorkers and reduce carbon emissions by motorized vehicles, according to DCP.
The new zoning would require that the bicycle parking spaces be enclosed, secure and accessible to designated users. The new requirements are exempt from the calculation of floor area, so as not to encumber new development, according to the agency.
The text amendment would require residential buildings with more than 10 units to provide bicycle parking for 50 percent of the units.
Retail and most other commercial uses will be required to provide one space for every 10,000 square feet of floor area. Smaller buildings, where three or fewer spaces are required, will be able to waive the requirement.
The requirements would apply only to new buildings, enlargements of 50 percent or more, and conversions to residential use.
Ultimately, the City Council must approve of the amendment. The community board’s vote is only advisory in nature.
– Gary Buiso
