Bike lockers now available in downtown Ottawa

It’s a new level of security for Ottawa’s cyclists.

Three bike parking lockers have been installed in the downtown core, at 141 Clarence Street in the ByWard Market, at 234-250 Slater Street in Centretown, and at 170 Second Avenue in the Glebe.

Each locker can hold six bicycles and are available on a first come, first serve basis.

There is no cost for the first two hours, with each additional hour costing 50 cents.

How to reserve a locker:

• Download the Vélo-Transit application
• Create an account and choose the desired location
• Select “Pay as you go”, followed by your desired locker number
• Enter your payment details and confirm the start of the rental.
• Select “Open door” and wait for approximately 30 seconds.
• Store your bike by laying your mobile device flat on the lock for 5 seconds to unlock it.
• The door will lock automatically after 8 seconds or as soon as the door closes.
• Retrieve your bike by following the previous step to unlock.
• To stop your rental, click “End Rental or Stop Service” in the Vélo-Transit application.

The city says the initiative is part of its Public Bike Parking Strategy and is aimed at encouraging cycling. The city adds this initial phase will be monitored to determine potential next steps to adjust and expand the program.