A provincial grant will keep Penticton's bike valet service free for 2025.
The city announced on July 10 that it had received the funding from the Ministry of Transportation and Transit through the BC Cycling Coalition to keep the service free until Sept. 6.
The grant is part of a province-wide initiative to support active transportation across B.C.
"Penticton is proud to support active transportation and making it easier for residents and visitors to leave their cars at home,” said Penticton Mayor Bloomfield. “By encouraging people to walk, bike, or roll to events, we’re reducing emissions, promoting physical activity, and creating a safer, more connected city for everyone.”
The service is open to all members of the public and is available for both residents of Penticton and visitors to the city and its many events.
The city's bike valet also offers a secure space for e-bikes, scooters, strollers and more during events, from the weekly community market to the annual Penticton Peach Festival.
“Everyone should feel confident choosing active transportation for their daily trips, and this service helps ensure that safe, secure parking is available to riders of all ages and abilities," said Jen Petersen, executive director of the BCCC.
For upcoming events, the bike valet service will be available at the Piccolofondo at Rotary Park on July 12, Rib Fest at Okanagan Lake Park from July 25 to 27 and Penticton Peach Festival from Aug. 6 to 10.
The times that the service will be available can be found below:
• Farmer's Market (Main Street by Gyro Park): Saturdays 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (until Sept. 6)
• Piccolofondo (Rotary Park): July 12, 7:30 – 10 a.m.
• Rib Fest (Okanagan Lake Park): July 25, 12 – 6:30 p.m.
• Rib Fest (Okanagan Lake Park): July 26 and 27, 11:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
• PeachFest (Okanagan Lake Park): Aug. 6 to 10, 11:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
