EDC weighs bike-rack installation after DOT permit guidance and cost checks

At the meeting, S1 updated the committee on state Department of Transportation guidance for a proposed bike rack installation in the village: DOT identified the work as a right-of-way activity and requested that the rack not be placed on the sidewalk. Committee members said the town would likely need to be the permittee, which makes Select Board approval necessary.

"It's a right of way activity permit, which is what...we do ask that the bike rack not be installed on the sidewalk," S1 reported after the DOT exchange, and members discussed keeping town liability separate from state interests. S1 said prior vendor pricing (Barco Products) indicated a mounted bike rack plus shipping runs in the range of about $600, and members agreed to gather receipts, confirm installation costs (footings, matting, mulch/rock) and consult public works on preferred siting and safety codes.

Committee members raised funding options — business donations, crowdfunding and local bike clubs — and discussed whether timber or wood options (cheaper locally) would meet safety and longevity standards. The committee agreed to table the item pending a short cost package, a picture or model for Select Board review and public-works signoff on installation standards and liability implications.

Next steps: S1 will locate original receipt/pricing from public-works memo, collect updated quotes and provide images so the Select Board can consider the town acting as permittee and determine whether to authorize installation.