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Secure Urban Bike Racks Return to Downtown Kingston in Time for World Car-Free Day

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Eighteen secure Urban Bike Racks have been installed in downtown Kingston, strategically positioned at the bottom, middle, and top sections of the main commercial area - arriving just in time for World Car-Free Day on September 22nd. 

The state-of-the-art Bike racks offer a free, secure and convenient solution for cyclists commuting to work or exploring downtown Kingston. Bikeep - a free app available on both iOS and Android devices needs to be downloaded to use the racks in the downtown core. You can also search for Bikeep stations in over 16 countries worldwide. Bay Area Rapid Transit in San Francisco calls them the 'gold standard of bike racks'. 

The secure bike racks were part of a pilot program last summer, temporarily placed on Princess Street. Now permanently installed, downtown Kingston offers consistent and dependable locations for cyclists to become accustomed to using. 

Safety Features

Bikeep app acts as a digital key, allowing only authorized access and real-time notifications for attempted theft or tampering. They are made of durable, corrosion-resistant materials, offering 3 layers of security – large steel bar locks frame and wheel, cut-safety wire inside steel bar to prevent theft by cutting through the bar, a sensor that notifies the user on their smart phone of tampering.

Encrypted communication, password-protected accounts, and 24/7 server monitoring ensure user information remains secure. Manual unlocking by local staff at the Downtown Kingston BIA ensures access during emergencies or technical difficulties. 

Recognized internationally for their exceptional security, Urban Racks offer cyclists reliable and convenient bike parking. Downtown Kingston's adoption of this technology meets Downtown Kingston's Strategic Objective to promote active transportation options. Encouraging the use of active transportation methods such as walking, cycling, scooters and public transit helps to reduce traffic congestion, automobile dependency and carbon emissions.

Now residents, employees  and visitors can explore the downtown Kingston with confidence, knowing their bikes are safe and secure, while engaging doing something good for their health and the health of the environment. 

To lock your bike, follow the user-friendly on-screen instructions on the Bikeep app. When it's time to unlock your bike, just slide to unlock within the app, and you'll be on your way. 

Bike racks can be found at the following locations:

  • Ontario St., across from City Hall 
  • Brock St. in front of Chown Parking Garage, across from Hotel Dieu 
  • Barrie St. at the corner of Princess and Barrie, kitty-corner from Metro parking lot (launching shortly)

Click for Google Maps vehicle and bike rack parking in downtown Kingston.

For more information about active mobility in downtown Kingston visit: https://downtownkingston.ca/pages/get-moving 
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