Metra will make its Covid-era bike policy permanent and install bike racks to accommodate more bikes on train cars.
A new policy on Chicago’s Metra commuter rail system will make its pandemic-era policy of permitting bikes on all trains permanent. Metra will also install new bike racks on 50 train cars, reports AJ LaTrace in Streetsblog Chicago.
“This change comes after Metra recorded the highest number of bike trips made using the system. According to Metra, 260,000 bicyclists took trips on the system in 2023, which the organization says is higher than pre-pandemic years.” (LaTrace points out that before the pandemic, cyclists were not allowed to bring bikes on trains during all hours).
According to LaTrace, “While Metra has allowed bikes on trains since 2005, they were only permitted in the ADA area of train cars, and bicycle riders were turned away at stations if too many bikes were already on board.” The new policy includes regulations on maximum bike dimensions and prohibits gas-powered bikes and scooters.
Metra is also making changes to its fares and zone structure. Tickets will range from $3.75 to $6.75.
FULL STORY: What does Metra’s permanent “bikes on all trains” policy, starting Thursday, mean for you?
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