Robert Thomas
Thu, 01 Aug 2002 15:17:42 -0700
CT&C E-mail
Memorandum
Architecture
- Preservation - Community & Transportation Planning
August 1,
2002
Dear Amtrak Customer Service:
I am writing to ask you to reverse your new policy of confiscating bicycles at 30th Street Station which are parked to anything other your inadequate and poorly-designed bicycle racks.
For the last 36 years I have lived in West Philadelphia, and bicycle regularly to 30th Street Station to travel by Amtrak, SEPTA and NJ Transit. This arrangement is extremely convenient, and in our mutual interest.
Yes, many times I have locked my bicycle to a parking meter. I have done this, not be perverse, but because your existing bicycle racks are often full. Also, what racks exist are poorly designed, as they are of the outdated "schoolyard" type, which do not allow for both wheels and the frame to be locked up. You should visit the bicycle parking array at the Philadelphia Museum of Art to see a properly designed outdoor urban bicycle parking facility, or look at the bicycle racks installed by the City of Philadelphia at numerous locations, such as City Hall. These other buildings are national architectural landmarks, and the racks installed there are safe, convenient, and architecturally appropriate for buildings of the importance of 30th Street Station.
As an architect, member of the Association of Bicycle and Pedestrian Professionals, and one who regularly designs bicycle facilities, I would be pleased to share these details with you.
Thus, until Amtrak is able to furnish an adequate number of properly designed bicycle parking spaces, I would ask that you not discourage bicycle access to 30th Street Station by confiscating your customers' bicycles. Rather, please know that intermodal travel is the wave of the future, and Amtrak should do everything to encourage bicycle access to its stations and trains.
I would appreciate hearing from you on this matter at my office as shown below. Thank you very much in advance for your assistance.
Very truly yours,
Bob
Thomas
Campbell Thomas & Co.
Robert P. Thomas, AIA,
Partner
1504 South Street / Philadelphia PA 19146-1636
Direct Line
215-985-4354 / Fax 215-545-8397
Direct E-mail: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Web: <http://www.campbellthomas.com/>