Bike Racks as Public Art Gaining Popularity

"'It creates a better environment for people who live here and visit here, and it gives people a place to park their bikes,' says Lacy LaBorde of the Downtown Austin Alliance.

Designs for sculpture bike racks were unveiled Friday, as the Texas capital became the latest community to add art that promotes travel by pedal."

"Cyclist Rick Risemberg of Los Angeles, who says he bikes 500-600 miles per month and edits the online magazine Bicycle Fixation, says more bike racks are a great idea.

'Street furniture is an important thing in getting people out of their cars,' Risemberg says. 'Having bike racks that are pretty and clever and make people feel good makes for a better civic atmosphere - it increases the viability of your downtown area.'"