A big boon to people in Beaverton who bike to the MAX (and to those who are considering it): TriMet began construction today on a covered bike facility that will provide secure parking for 74 bicycles at the Beaverton Transit Center. An additional 26 covered spaces will also be available outside the cage.

The bike cage will provide access to the card-entry bike parking facility for a nominal fee (five cents per hour).

It should also persuade some reluctant to leave their high-end bicycles unattended to begin riding to the MAX and allow some currently bring their bikes onto the MAX with another option.

According to TriMet, 12% of Beaverton Transit Center riders already arrive by bike. The existing bike racks are full during the summer months. TriMet currently operates a similar structure at the Sunset Transit Center.