Bike racks on buses offer option

We've all had those "where were you when?" moments. I was on National Ave. when I had my most recent.

The other day was the first time I witnessed one of the new bike racks secured to the front of a Milwaukee County Transit System bus.

Following a 2 1/2 -year campaign and vetoes by the Milwaukee County executive, the County Board included a Bike Rack on Buses program in the county budget. As a result, all 470 transit system buses eventually will be equipped with bike racks.

This was big news for area bicycling enthusiasts like me and a huge victory for Milwaukee, which among 45 major U.S. cities was one of only three that didn't have bike racks on buses, according to the Alliance for Biking and Walking. Milwaukee joins 12 other municipalities in Wisconsin, including Green Bay, Madison and Sheboygan, that have bike racks on buses.

The program here garnered much support because of the many benefits it creates, including increased bus ridership, added revenue, expanded service area and an improved image of our public transit.

For me, the main benefit is the reduced dependence on cars, as the bike racks offer people the option to combine travel modes and incentive to try bicycling.

Being an avid bicyclist, naturally there have been more than a few times when my bike has failed me. Obviously, these machines aren't infallible, especially when up against pothole-ridden streets. But an even harder kick to the teeth, my bike failures often have occurred miles from home. Now, if I find myself stranded, at least I have the opportunity to find a bus to get me - and my bike - to my destination.

Of course, it's not just my stupidity or hard luck that are reasons to use bike racks on buses. The new racks ultimately will increase the number of bicycle commuters. Riders living some distance from a bus line might use their bikes to get to the bus stop or head out to explore the bike trails that are far from their homes.

I live on Milwaukee's east side and work in Franklin. Sure, I probably could bike the 20 some miles, but it's just a little too far to be a practical ride each morning. I now can split my commute - riding my bike to the bus stop, securing it on the rack and taking the bus, then pedaling the rest of the way. This also allows me to enjoy a bike ride during my lunch break.

Also, considering Wisconsin's unpredictable weather - a day can transition from sunshine to thunderstorms in mere minutes - a bus trip might be necessary some days. And, of course, drinking and cycling can be just as tragic as drinking and driving.

It's just nice to have another transportation option.

Originally published here.