Update on dedicated motorcycle parking

March 8, 1:18 PMMotorcycle ExaminerKen Bingenheimer

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Motorcycles use less parking space

Can we work to get dedicated parking for motorcycles? I asked that question in a previous post after the issue was raised by Lawrence Powell. Here's an update on the response.

I asked if there was anyone out there interested in getting the ball rolling. I made the point that I'm not experienced with a grassroots undertaking of this sort but "I do have a voice, and I'm not afraid to use it." A couple people have responded.

Dustin Hulsey has taken the initiative and contacted his state rep, Joe Rice, with the following message.

"I would like to see a bill, or some sort of legislation introduced that promotes designated bike or scooter parking.  In this economy, and with the new focus on going green and conservation for the environment, I think that the state should look at becoming more "two wheeled" friendly.  I know that several cities around the country have designated parking, such as Seattle , San Francisco , and even in places such as Ohio.  If we are promoting Colorado as being a "green" state, why are there no discounts, parking, or any other measures provided for these highly economical and low pollution vehicles? 

"You could take two parking spaces for cars and turn them into four or more parking spaces for the two wheeled vehicles.  I know Denver has put a noise ordinance into effect, but that shouldn't stop the vehicles from coming if they have their own place to park, or even discounts for the meters. I know I'm speaking mostly about downtown Denver, but that is what I'm most familiar with. Maybe it could be something along the lines of handicapped parking. For every 20 parking spaces in a lot, there could be one space for motorcycles, which would equate to between two to four cycles or scooters depending on how the spaces were set up.

"I don't know that this is a fair equation, but some research would need to be done to get the correct amount. I can tell you that last year was a banner year for scooters. I have seen more scooters on the road last year in the Denver metro area than I have in the last fifteen years put together. I'm putting this idea into your hands due to this would be ground breaking legislation if put into effect. As stated previously, many cities have made provisions for this, but not whole states. This could be done at the state parks, government offices, and promoted for crowded areas, such as LoDo, downtown Colorado Springs , etc. I am providing you a link that even brought up this discussion in the first place."

Now, that's a great way to start, contacting your rep that way with a solid argument. Kudos to Dustin. Joe Rice's response gives a very good indication that something like this will not happen overnight. Here's what he said.

"Thank you for taking the time to contact me about designated parking areas for bikes and motorcycles.  I appreciate your comments.

"As I’m sure you know, finding ways to reduce auto emissions is an important but complex endeavor. I am intrigued by the policy that you mentioned; while I am sure that we would have to conduct more research before determining whether or not designated parking areas would boost the use of bikes and motorcycles, this is a proposal that is worthy of future consideration. Unfortunately, each member of the state legislature may only introduce five bills over the course of a single legislative session. As I have already introduced my five proposals, this would not be something that I could introduce this year. However, if you would like to discuss designated parking spaces in greater detail, I am sure that we could consider introducing it in 2010 or beyond. I would encourage you to take the time to visit with me at one of my three monthly town hall meetings (see the bottom of this message for details).

"Thanks again for taking the time to write. Please contact me with any additional questions or concerns on this or any other matter of importance to you."

I think it's encouraging that Joe expressed willingness to consider the matter. Dustin suggests that "I guess it is up to someone else in another district to try to get some sort of proposal to the state." Clearly, anyone who can contact their state rep or state senator to pursue this ought to do so, and if you do, let me know how it goes. Realistically though, I suspect that all the legislators have already introduced their bills this year, but it's definitely not too early to start talking with them about introducing something next year. Feel free to use Dustin's proposal above as a starting point.

I actually have more to report, but this post is running long, so I'll continue in another post soon. I'm encouraged. It looks like there really are people willing to work on this. I urge anyone who is interested to send me their thoughts so we can get a real discussion -- and maybe a movement! -- going here. 

Follow-up articles: Dedicated MC parking: learning how to be an activist
Dedicated motorcycle parking: cautious optimism may be in order