Victoria seeking proposals for summer 'bike valet' service
CTV
The City of Victoria is soliciting proposals from groups interested in operating a free "bike valet" in the city's downtown this summer.
A request for proposals posted on the city's website seeks submissions from "qualified proponents" who can "provide, operate, promote, maintain and evaluate a bicycle valet pilot project" in the downtown core.
The idea, according to the document, is to provide “enhanced bicycle parking options” downtown, which the city hopes will prevent theft of and damage to parked bikes and encourage more people to choose active transportation options.
"The service would be offered to the public free of charge and designed to improve the confidence, convenience and overall experience for people using active transportation," project description reads.
The city is offering space in the Undercroft, under the antechamber at City Hall in Centennial Square, for the successful applicant to operate the valet service. Pitches to locate the service on a privately owned outdoor space in the downtown core will also be considered, according to the project's terms of reference.
"This RFP is focused on offering a 'coat check' style valet service that consists of a staffed, secured area with established operating hours for bicycle parking," the document reads.
"The service must accommodate bicycles (including e-bikes, cargo bikes, recumbent and/or other types of adaptive bicycles), personal mobility scooters, walkers, strollers, and skateboards. Other personal transportation mobility devices may be serviced at the Proponent’s discretion."
Whoever is selected to operate the program will be provided with city-branded tents and other materials, including fencing, tables and chairs, and signage.
No third-party advertising will be allowed, and no fees can be charged for the bike valet service. Tips can be accepted, but the operator cannot require or "actively encourage" them.
