Verbatim from Mayor Tom Henry's Office

Fort Wayne, Ind. (WOWO):  Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry today announced that 75 bike racks and their installation are available for free to qualifying commercial property owners.

In order to qualify, properties should be frequented regularly by customers or visitors, should be located within City limits, and should be located one-half mile or less from a trail. Property owners should call 311 if they are interested in having a bike rack installed.

“This is a great way to promote healthier lifestyles and economic development,” said Mayor Henry. “I encourage local businesses to take advantage of the free bike racks and build their customer base so it includes people who pedal as well as those who drive.”

The City's Bike Fort Wayne Plan calls for bike racks to be installed throughout the community, particularly at businesses and visitor destinations. The Bike Fort Wayne Plan is a City Council-approved strategy to promote active transportation as a way to lessen traffic congestion and air pollution, as well as promote healthier lifestyles. To date, the City has installed approximately 225 bike racks. Most of the funding comes from federal CMAQ (Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement) dollars.