DIY-Lowell, in conjunction with the Lowell Bike Coalition is sponsoring an Artistic Bike Rack Competition with the goal of supporting and encouraging bicycling in Lowell.
Traveling by bicycle is a growing transportation alternative and by making Lowell a bicycle-friendly destination, we can encourage cyclists to visit our city. Providing a welcoming place for visitors to lock up their bikes, will allow them to stay, eat, and shop. They will discover what we already know: "There's a lot to like about Lowell."
This project will provide a creative solution to the need for secure bike parking that also functions as an artistic addition to the city’s historic character and charm. The bike racks will preferentially use upcycled materials and found objects from Lowell’s historic mill buildings, and the designs will reflect and reference Lowell’s rich history.
The initial goal is to install two artistic bike racks during the spring of 2016: One at the Mogan Cultural Center, near Boarding House Park on French St. and the other at Mill No. 5 on Jackson St.
This project will be funded by grants and private donations. The total projected budget for each rack will vary depending on the number of bicycles it will accommodate and the materials used. The final number of designs to be selected will be based on available funding. Potential future sites include the public library, heavily trafficked shopping areas, and the National Park Visitor Center.
Once we have secured enough funding, the competition will be opened to artists and design professionals, as well as all community members with a creative flair and an eye for fun and functionality. Everyone is encouraged to participate.