NEW YORK – Metro-North Railroad has announced a pilot program for secure bicycle storage is coming to Grand Central Terminal. In collaboration with Brooklyn-based Oonee, Metro-North will have a six-space secure biking storage unit installed at the terminal’s former “taxiway” space at 43rd Street and Vanderbilt Avenue, with direct access to the terminal’s west balcony and main concourse.
The pilot program will run for one year with an expected launch for November. The pilot is expected to include the debut of a six-space secure bike parking pod known as Oonee’s Mini. Use of the pod will require a reservation through membership with Oonee, which will allow users to unlock a private space inside the pod using a keycard or smartphone. Reservations will be offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. Oonee memberships are free to the public and anyone can register on Oonee’s website.
“Metro-North understands the importance of sustainable transportation and sees cycling as a natural partner to mass transit in that respect,” said Catherine Rinaldi, President of Metro-North Railroad. “We are excited to work with a local partner for this pilot, which has game-changing potential to expand to more Metro-North stations as well as subway and LIRR stations throughout the New York City region.”
“Secure bike parking facilities have the potential to dramatically increase the range of New York’s subway and rail stations by making it easier for customers to bike to and from transit,” said Shabazz Stuart, Oonee Founder. “As a local company founded by transit advocates and policy leaders, we are thrilled to partner with the MTA on this historic pilot that will bring high-quality bike parking to one of the region’s most important transit hubs. We can’t wait to get started.”
“Access to secure bike parking is a key way to encourage more biking in New York City, and we are very pleased to see the MTA working with Oonee to launch a secure biking pilot,” according to Danny Harris, Transportation Alternatives Executive Director.
The storage pod installation and maintenance will be handled by Oonee. Through their customer support, Oonee Care, Oonee will handle the upkeep of the storage pod and respond to any customer service needs. The pod will have a free air pump with both Presta and Schrader valves, hydraulic sliding doors for easy access to the pod, automated closing doors, and insurance coverage for both bike and scooter owners.
The launch of the Oonee pilot follows Metro-North and the Long Island Rail Road’s announcement that bike permits are no longer required on board trains as of September 7.
For current information on taking your bike on MTA subways, buses, and commuter rail, visit new.mta.info/guide/bikes.
