Cyclists in BC’s capital are getting the royal treatment as the City of Victoria rolls out a valet service for bicycles, strollers, and other active transportation starting this week.
On Friday, June 24th, city officials are launching a staffed valet service located in a secure, covered zone at City Hall along Pandora Avenue.
The city says the service will be free for users and open seven days a week until early November, with hours likely extended for select special events this summer.
Bicycles, including cargo, recumbent, e-bikes, and adaptive bikes, along with push scooters, strollers and other modes of active transportation are welcome, with users able to leave their lights, helmets and panniers securely attached.
The pilot project, operated by Better Environmentally Sound Transportation (BEST) and Capital Bike, aims to improve bicycle parking, attract new riders and deter bike theft in the city, according to Mayor Lisa Helps.
All valet users will be offered free registration with Project 529 Garage, the bicycle recovery system used by the Victoria Police Department, states the city in a press release.
“The valet service will offer exceptional convenience and peace of mind for those looking to ride downtown, particularly for families, commuters, and visitors,” added Helps.
Jeff Bray, executive director of the Downtown Victoria Business Association, echoes Helps and says the new service will also help attract people to shop, dine, visit, and park their bikes downtown confidently.
Inspired by successful public bike valets in cities like Vancouver and Portland, Oregon, other initiatives in Victoria include bike parking upgrades in the Yates Street parkade and new covered bike shelters coming to schools and community centres this fall.
Downtown Victoria Bike Valet
- Location: City Hall, Pandora Street
- Starts: June 24th until November
- Cost: Free
Valet operating hours:
- 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday
- 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday
- 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday
- 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sunday
