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June 2005 |
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Afternoon in the Intersection of Equality and Safety School and Ped Safety Bills Passed Taking It To the (Healthy) Streets DuPage County Observes Bike Day |
Metra Launches Bike Service After many years of lobbying by Chicagoland Bicycle Federation and political pressure exerted by many state legislators and the Lt. Governor's Office, there is now and for the first time, a significant Bikes on Metra program. Starting June 1, Metra passengers can combine bicycling with their travel plans under an ordinance approved May 20 by the Metra Board. The long-awaited acceptance of bikes on Metra trains allows as many as two bikes per wheelchair-accessible car during off-peak hours, and provides morning and evening rush-hour access for reverse commuters.
The policy allows — at no extra charge — standard-sized bicycles carried by adults or an accompanied youth age 12 and older. Bikes would be permitted on all train lines and all stations during weekends and non-rush periods except for blackout periods during special events, such as Taste of Chicago, Blues Fest and the Air and Water Show. Weekday non-rush hours are defined as 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and after 6:30 p.m. Up to two bicycles are allowed in each of the accessible cars on a first come, first served basis. This will leave some accessible space on cars beyond the space taken up by bicycles. Cyclists are required to leave the train at any time if the space is needed for travelers with disabilities. Bicyclists will not be allowed to board crowded trains. Bicyclists must supply a bungee cord or similar device to secure their bikes in the designated area. For more information, go to the Metra Web site, or to www.biketraffic.org/.
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