The parks department is in the process of installing 24 new bicycle racks throughout the city’s parks.
One of the most recent spots is scenic Quinnipiac River Park, where the concrete pad was poured this past weekend. The bolting down of the rack is due shortly. It could not have come soon enough for some Fair Haveners.
According to parks department landscape architect David Moser, each rack costs $458 and the installation another $450.
Click here for the parks department map of the locations of the racks as well as a description of the rack.
Fair Haven Alderwoman Erin Sturgis-Pascale had suggested to city transportation chief Mike Piscitelli a U‑shaped design, which she said gives a bike more stability when parked. No go. Sturgis-Pascale said any bike rack installation in the park is fine. “I totally commend Mike,” she said.
The location of the rack also met with the alderwoman’s approval. Just north of Exchange Street and along the walking path, the rack will be close to the tents of the park’s Thursday afternoon green markets.
Sturgis-Pascale said that a friend’s child leaned his bike up against a tree two weeks ago. After they finished shopping, they noticed the bike was stolen.
“I push my bike at the market,” along with managing bags and her child, she said.
That soon will no longer be necessary.
“The layout of the bicycle racks is specific to the park’s needs and is not part of a greater plan for bicycle racks in the City,” wrote Moser in an email message.