Bike parking a back-to-school bonus

24 January 2012

Students riding their bikes back to school this term will be able to park safely and in style, thanks to new bike racks provided by the City of Sydney.

Several schools have taken up the City's offer of free bike racks for public schools in the local government area, after councillors set aside $20,000 from the bike parking budget.

This month a total of 14 racks will be delivered to Crown Street Public School, Bourke Street Public School, Ultimo Public School and Paddington Public School, providing bike parking for 76 students.

Bourke Street Public School Principal Peter Johnston said the number of students cycling to school had increased dramatically since the Bourke Street bike path opened.

"When I started at the school three years ago there were maybe one or two kids who would cycle," he said. "Now there are up to 30, which is about a third of the population of the school.

"Cycling is much more accessible now. Our school is situated on the bike lane and a lot of our students also live on the bike lanes, so they can ride straight from home. A lot of families are getting rid of their cars and the parents are riding to work, so they want their kids to ride to school."

Peter said teachers noticed a big difference in students who enjoyed regular exercise as part of their daily routine.

"They seem to be more alert when they get here if they cycled or walked, instead of being asleep in the car," he said.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore MP said children riding to school benefited the entire community.

"Students riding or walking to school means less cars on the road in the morning peak, reducing congestion and improving safety on the roads around schools," the Lord Mayor said.

"Providing bike parking is just one way of encouraging more children to use their bikes. As more of our inner city bike network is linked up, more students will be able to cycle safely to school."

Residents and businesses can also request bike parking in their area. Each request for bike parking is reviewed by City of Sydney staff taking into account location, likely use and installation. Anyone interested in applying should email council@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

For more information about the city's bike network visit sydneycycleways.net

CoS Media Contact: Emma Shaw 02 9265 9582 or eshaw@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au