New bike lockers for cycling commuters

New bike lockers are being installed at Island Transit bus stops to provide a safe, secure and weather-resistant place for riders to store their bikes.

Bike lockers are being installed at the Clinton Park and Ride, Langley Park and Ride, North Main Street in Coupeville, Harbor Station in Oak Harbor and Terry’s Corner on Camano Island.

Island Transit is looking into other possible sites based on need and site feasibility, according to transit officials. Each locker can accommodate two bikes that go into the large metal box from opposite ends.

A diagonal wall inside the locker divides the box into two lockers with separate locking doors.

Bike locker rental is available on a first-come, first-served basis. A refundable deposit of $70, along with a user fee of $5 per month paid in one annual payment allows use of a designated bike locker.

Dimensions of a bike locker are 75 inches long, 48 inches high and 39 inches wide. Bikes with child carriers, long wheelbases, such as recumbents or wide handlebars might not fit into the bike lockers, so measure your bike first.

All Island Transit buses have bike racks which can take three bikes each. On occasion, when the bike rack is full, the bus operator may allow a bike to be brought inside the bus and secured near the front.

A combination of biking and busing can extend your cycling reach and bike lockers help make the connection to public transit more convenient for a cleaner, greener ride.

• For more information, call 360-678-7771.