A seasonal valet service offered by the City of Penticton has been nothing short of a success, local officials said Wednesday, Sept. 4.
The city's free bike valet program for 2024, which launched on May 18, is set to wrap up this Saturday, Sept. 7, during the weekly downtown markets.
According to the city, more than 1,800 bicycles, scooters and skateboards have been parked during various community events this spring and summer, following the program's launch.
“We’re thrilled with the response we’ve had these past few months," said Madison Poultney, the city's sustainability coordinator. "We’ve received a lot of positive feedback and have enjoyed connecting with fellow cyclists."
The service was made available each Saturday during the Penticton Farmers' Market and during major annual events like HaHaHa Kidzfest, Canada Day festivities, Peach Festival, and Ironman Canada.
"We’d like to thank the community for their efforts to promote sustainable and active transportation – and look forward to seeing you again next year," Poultney said.
The program has seen an increase in usage since its initial launch by the Penticton and Area Cycling Association in 2018, according to the city.
In 2023, the service parked 1,266 bikes, representing a 32 per cent increase over the previous year. Since 2018, more than 6,570 bikes/scooters/skateboards have used the valet.
The program's final day this year will be offered on Saturday at Gyro Park from 8 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.
As Penticton event-goers gear up for a busy month of September, city officials are also reminding cyclists that outdoor bike racks are available at various locations across the city's downtown core.
The city says it is offering free bike racks to businesses and multi-unit residential buildings. More information can be found here.
