The provision of convenient and secure bicycle parking is essential to
cyclistsi. When good bicycle parking is provided as part of bicycle
infrastructure in a community, it makes bicycle use more convenient
and attractive, thereby helping to encourage the use of bicycles as a
means of transportationii. Transition from automobile transportation to
active modes of transportation, such as cycling, results in increased
transportation sustainability, and has personal and community‐wide
health, environmental, and economic benefits.
According to the 2011 Census, 3.8% of Nelsonites bicycle to work. This
is significantly more than the provincial average of 2.1%iii. This higherthan‐
average use of bicycles to commute indicates a need for bicycle facilities. It also shows that
bicycling is a viable form of transportation in Nelson, and that there is the potential to increase the
mode share of travel by bicycle. One way to help people choose to cycle more and more often is to
provide facilities such as excellent bicycle parking.