Introduction: How to Request Bike Racks Anywhere and Everywhere

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Boston has had a not-so-good biking reputation. Fortunately, Boston has been cleaning up its act. In recent times, Boston has really gotten more bike-friendly, with the help of people who care to make it more accessible... like you! A bike-friendly Boston would help break down barriers in our too often polarized city by getting more people out and used to seeing each other. And make it easier for people of all incomes and backgrounds to get around cheaply and safely. Plus, it's fun.

For this instructable, you will need:
-a computer

This instructable is an item on the Neighbors Project Neighbors Checklist.

Step 1: Notice Where Bike Racks Should Be, But Aren't.

Do you ever want to lock up your bike on a rack, and can't because that rack simply isn't there? There are probably other people who feel the same way. This is an example of a place where a bike rack would be a great idea. Keep track of the places you find bike racks fit to exist... but don't. This places can be in front of a park, near a grocery station, at the bus stop. There may be reasons why a rack cannot be installed in a particular place. While there are no set regulations, a sidewalk may not be wide enough for a bike rack. The City of Boston is also working with historical districts to determine regulations for bike racks in these areas.

Step 2: Request Bike Racks Online.

As you find places where bike racks are needed, request away! The City of Boston has a form you can fill out here.

Step 3: Request Bike Racks at Private Businesses.

Sometimes, that missing bike rack's location is somewhere privately owned. in the event that you need a bike rack in a place like this, talk to building management and ask them to install a bike rack.

Step 4: Follow Up!

Make sure that racks are installed correctly. If they are not, you should let the City of Boston know by calling the Mayor's office at 617 635 4500.

Watch the racks appear, but don't stop there! There is a plethora of ways to make Boston more bike-friendly. Boston Bikes is an initiative that seeks to make Boston a world-class bike city. At that website you can find ongoing events and projects that you can be a part of to make biking easier for you and everyone else.