From The New York Shitty Inbox, Part III: Delivery Bikes Only?

A fellow we’ll call “T” (who took the above photograph) writes:

Just saw this shiny new sign on the westernmost edge of McCarren. Is this even legally enforceable? I don’t think that if you install a structure like this on public property (ie: the sidewalk) you get to enforce who uses it. Anyhow, it’s a pretty gross gesture to others in the neighborhood: “Our wealthy tenants have so many meals delivered that we need an entire rack to accommodate the bikes. I’m sure the rest of you serfs don’t understand what that’s like, but we appreciate your compliance. Please go chain up against the nearest street sign.”

Is this legally enforceable? That’s an excellent question. One I have taken up with a few folks in the know.

To be continued…

UPDATE, 6:43 p.m.: Follows are a few responses I have received!

Needs a DOT revocable consent for street furniture.

There was another one of these “private bike racks” in the east village last year.

Gothamist got to the bottom of it. http://gothamist.com/2011/10/14/can_you_have_a_private_bike_rack_on.php

Quoth the DOT representative: “even if a permit is issued for installation, that does not mean the bike rack is for the exclusive use of the owner if it is installed on a public sidewalk.”

Public sidewalk = public bike rack.

So the next question becomes:

Will this ordinance be enforced?

Given the predilection for selective enforcement hereabouts, I for one am not terribly optimistic.