San Luis Obispo – February 28, 2006 - Team SLO Nexus members proudly provided ample assistance from 8 am to 6pm last Thursday to 278 bicyclists making their way over to Morro Street to stash their wheels while they enjoyed an exciting slice of the Tour of California’s "Queen Stage" Finish.

Anticipating the captivating Monterey Street sprint finish, bicyclists from all around San Luis Obispo and beyond, rolled into the heart of downtown SLO to catch a glimpse. On their way over to the finish line and expo areas, they made a convenient stop on Morro Street, where they handed over their bikes to valet attendants, resting assured that their bikes were safe as they roamed the crowded scene.

“A free Clif Bar too?” a cyclist asked with delight, as team member Kim Lisagor tagged his bike and hung it on the rack nearby. An outpouring of appreciation and gratitude for this outstanding service for bicycle commuters came from each cyclist, instigating various people to remark on the need for a consistent bike valet service in the downtown area during high-traffic events like the Farmer’s Market.

Adam Fukushima, director of the SLO County Bicycle Coalition (SLOCBC) can’t agree more, stating that the Coalition is in full support of a viable and consistent valet service and would like to see it happen soon. “Bike valet parking would be the most efficient way to get downtown. You get the best spot, no meter to feed, no tickets, just getting out on your bike, which is always exhilarating. I can’t think of a better way to get downtown.“

Kim, who is also a SLOCBC Board Member, laments on how limited bike parking already is under normal circumstances. “Cyclists need bike parking that is safe and reliable. They would appreciate a central space where they could store their bike and not have to hunt it down later. Seeing the great numbers of people who took advantage of last Thursday’s valet, we have tangible evidence that there is a tremendous demand for this service."

The Local Organizing Committee for the Tour of California was grateful that the service was provided, which helped mitigate automobile traffic by offering an alternative, one that allows 14 participants coming by bike to fit in one car’s spot - a much more efficient use of space. For the SLOCBC and Team SLO Nexus, providing that cycling alternative to the community is what they’re all about.