Some Brooklyn Residents Say Citi Bike Racks Amount To Intrusive Advertising
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Some angry neighbors have plastered new Citi Bike stations in Brooklyn with messages saying they amount to intrusive examples of "advertising" and "commercial activity."
The Brooklyn blog Brownstoner released a photo Monday showing a Citi Bike bike-sharing station in Fort Greene that had been covered with sheets reading, "Residential landmark blocks are not for advertising or commercial activity!" along with the Citibank logo.
The bike stations with the Citibank logo have drawn complaints in several areas of Brooklyn, according to a Brooklyn Eagle report. Residents of the building at 150 Joralemon St. in Brooklyn Heights have complained that the 25 bicycle docks appeared without notice on their block, which is quiet at night, and have been considering filing a lawsuit to have it removed, the publication reported.
The Landmarks Preservation Commission has not taken issue with the Citi Bike racks, as they are not considered permanent, the publication reported.
The long-delayed Citi Bike program is set to launch next month. City officials have strongly touted the program.
"For less than the cost of a single monthly MetroCard, an annual Citi Bike membership gives you instant access to unlimited short rides 365 days a year," said Department of Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan. "Citi Bike will redefine what it means to get around New York City, and now is the time to upgrade to this fun, fast and safe transportation option."
When the program gets rolling in May, 6,000 Citi Bikes will be docked at 330 stations across parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan.
The DOT said it hopes to eventually expand the program to include 600 stations and 10,000 bikes.
Citi Bike had been slated to start last summer.
Software issues and damage from Hurricane Sandy pushed back the launch date.
Are there Citi Bike racks in your neighborhood? Do you find them intrusive? Leave your comments below...
