We are always excited to see businesses find creative solutions to parking problems.  Any increase in access to a businesses means customers, clients, and employees will have more opportunities and options for getting to the location.  In October, we featured several businesses that were stepping up their bike parking access.

I stopped by the Owls Nest North space in Northeast Portland to take a look at this practical, yet charming solution to a potential problem.  Owls Nest is a collection of therapists working out of a residential area in Northeast Portland.  While many of their clients arrive by bicycle there is no place for the City of Portland to install one of our bicycle racks.  

Instead of force clients to lock up to a sign post (which is not very secure) or look for a bike rack elsewhere, the folks at Owls Nest North built their own rack out of recycled parts.  It's anchored in the yard, so it's secure.  What I appreciate most is that the rack's functionality  and funkiness blend beautifully into the little yard space.  You wouldn't even know it's a bicycle rack until you need it!

Have you noticed other creative solutions to parking or access issues of any kind?  Anybody know of a business that has "adopted" a bus stop or done something interesting with their auto parking lot?  Keep me posted!