There are few things that will turn me off more quickly to a place than a lack of bike parking or other bike facilities. Recently, the utilitarian bike rack has undergone a face lift. Be they the provocative designs of David Byrne, or the design contests that are sweeping the nation, the bicycle rack is becoming a cultural showpiece, a chance for people to think beyond waves, and U's.
Now, Los Angeles has its chance. City Council President Eric Garcetti, the Bike Writer's Collective, Community Redevelopment Agency and the Los Angeles County Bike Coalition are sponsoring a "design a bicycle rack contest." The winner will receive $2,000 and see their design pop-up at at least two dozen racks around East Hollywood.
The deadline for proposals is 3 P.M. on Friday, March 6 and should be either emailed to Helen.Leung@lacity.org or mailed to:
Los Angeles City Council President Eric Garcetti
East Hollywood Bike Rack Competition
Attn: Helen Leung
5500 Hollywood Blvd, 4th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90029
For more information on the contest, read the contest rules and regulations which can be found here.