The city of Cuneo launches a bike station

On 4 July, a new bike station was inaugurated in the Italian city of Cuneo, near its railway station at the Movicentro. This new bike station, the second of its kind in the Piedmont region, follows on from the first one that was established at Porta Nuova in Turin. The project received partial funding from European funds, and allows for the indoor accommodation of up to 50 bicycles through the implementation of multi-level bike racks. Additionally, there is an outdoor area where 20 more bikes can be securely attached to a weathering steel structure. The management of the bike station falls under the responsibility of the bus company.

Luca Pellegrino, the Mobility Councillor of the Municipality of Cuneo, commented on the inauguration of the bike station: "This is a completely new service, not only for the residents of Cuneo but also aimed at encouraging sustainable mobility by facilitating the use of non-polluting means of transportation and reducing the risks of theft and damages." As explained by the administration, the initiative also represents a measure to redevelop the area and provide a service that promotes intermodality. There is also a car park located near the bike station.

Access to the facility is only allowed for public transport subscribers through contactless technology. As recalled by FIAB Cuneo – Bicingiro (the Italian Federation for the Environment and Cycling), the service will be free of charge until 30 September. In addition to the 24/7 secure bike parking, users also have access to 4 free charging points for e-bikes and a bike workshop corner for regular maintenance.

Experiences like the one in Cuneo are spreading throughout Italy. In 2022, for example, the city of Bergamo inaugurated its first bike station just steps away from the local railway station, with the aim of encouraging commuters to use a bike+train solutions and thus reduce motor traffic. 

Original article published by rivistabc.com on 11 July 2023.