Can bicyclists and BART riders share the commute?
On Friday, BART launched a test to figure that out - to see if the system can accomodate both groups during the rush hour.
Every Friday for the month of August, riders are allowed to bring their bikes on any train, whenever they want. Normally, bicycles are limited to hours and routes outside of the heavy commute.
At least on this Friday, BART trains were full, and bike riders seemed to to fit. BART expects to double the number of bicyclists on the trains during the test period.
As bicycling gets more popular the transit agency decided to revisit the bike issue. It is working with a number of bike advocacy groups to monitor the progress. There are a few rules. No bikes on the first train car and if a train is full then cyclists will just have to wait until the next train comes.
BART is looking for feedback from riders during the test period.
BART staff is expected to present their findings to the BART Board of Directors in November.
