New Haven Wants to Make More Room for Bikes

The next time someone puts up a building with 10 parking spots, the city wants two spots carved for bicycles, too.

Cycling enthusiasts applauded the proposal—and pushed for more.

The discussion took place at last week’s City Plan Commission meeting in City Hall, where city officials talked about ways to “green” some of its regulations.

The city proposed new rules that would regulate storm water management, require bike parking, cut down on upward flooding from exterior lighting, and require more pervious materials on paved surfaces to reduce heat and allow for better drainage.

Commissioners held a public hearing on the items, but did not take a vote.

Most of the attention and plaudits went to proposed new regulations for bikes.

A half dozen members of Elm City Cycling showed up to cheer on amendments to Sections 29 and 45 of the zoning ordinances, which cover parking requirements.

Right now, the zoning law requires developers to make room for car parking, depending on how big the building is. The city wants to make room for bicycles, too—two bike spots for the first 10 car spots, and one bike spot for each additional 10 car spots. The regulations would apply to all new construction, including restaurants, apartment complexes and stores.

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