di Laura Tajoli

For what reason people are less willing to use their bikes at night? It’s just that they are afraid someone might steal them. So, here’s a new initiative that aims to promote bicycle’s usage: a free parking lot for all those who want to get down town and do not know where to safely place their means of transportation. In Milan, piazza Ventiquattro Maggio, Eco dalle Città with the support of Fondazione Cariplo and the Municipality created a free parking area for all the bikers. People can leave their bicycles and forget all about it, since some watchmen will make sure that no one will try to still anything. And this every weekend, Friday and Saturday, from 9.00 to 2.30.

How did people react to this new effort focused to encourage the use of the two-wheels vehicles? Last Friday it was the first BiciNOTTE night and we asked a few questions to some of the many people who decided to leave their bikes in the parking. The majority expressed surprise and was really happy about the initiative, of course. The key point, however, is that they all stated that the fact of being able to leave the bikes with no fear of robberies is a very good incentive to actually use the bike. Bicycles are economical, environment friendly and they are also very good for your health. 

Today they have also become safer, at least for all those who decide to wonder around the Navigli streets an the San Lorenzo district. If things will work out well new parkings could appear all over Milan and perhaps something new could start from this. A new way of living in the city, making no noise and without polluting the air.