Downtown Vancouver has a free bike valet operating all summer

Vancouver launched its first-ever free bike valet service for the downtown area last week. The summer-long service aims to provide cyclists with a convenient and secure parking option.

The bike valet, with a capacity to accommodate up to 100 bikes, is located beside the Vancouver City Centre Skytrain Station at Granville Street and Georgia Street. Rain or shine, the staffed service will operate from June 19 to September 1 every day of the week.

“This Bike Valet service will give downtown cyclists a free and secure place to keep their bikes for the day. TransLink will keep looking for creative ways to encourage sustainable transportation by making bicycle parking as simple as possible,” said Kevin B. Quinn, CEO of TransLink.

The Bike Valet is a free and secure coat check-style service designed to cater to a wide range of riders, including those with bicycles, e-scooters, bike trailers, strollers, and personal mobility devices.

By promoting cycling and offering a safe parking alternative, the service plays a pivotal role in encouraging clean and healthy transportation options within the city.

The Vancouver City Centre bike valet service is made possible through a corporate sponsor in partnership with TransLink’s Ride & Shine Program, Downtown Van, and the City of Vancouver. BEST (Better Environmentally Sound Transportation) will operate the Bike Valet.

Users of the service will also benefit from free registration with Project 529, a non-profit national bike recovery system.

“A new bike valet service in the heart of the city means you can explore everything downtown Vancouver has to offer knowing your bike is safe and secure,” said Mayor Ken Sim, who has not exactly endeared himself to the two-wheeled set during his time leading the city.  “Active transportation users will be able to park their wheels for a few minutes or all day and stroll the city center stress-free, knowing their rides are protected.”

Derek Hurley, General Manager of CF Pacific Centre Office Properties, expressed pride in participating in the Vancouver City Centre Bike Valet program. He said, “Not only is the Bike Valet an exceptional service, but it’s also highly convenient and adds to the vibrancy of our community. As one of the largest destinations for workers, shoppers, and visitors in the downtown core, we’re thrilled to be a program partner.”

With the launch of the free service, Vancouver is taking a step toward promoting sustainable transportation options and ensuring the security of cyclists’ rides throughout the summer season. Now, about those bike lanes in Stanley Park and on Broadway…