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PNC Park supports cycling

So Jane (skipdip) and I went to the Pirates game last night, and I was shocked to find out that bicycle helmets are apparently a security risk and potential weapon, and not allowed in the park. The reason the guard gave me is that helmets are hard and you could whack somebody with them. I tried to explain that they are actually made of porous foam, and designed to crumple when they hit something, thus not hurting ANYTHING, but he wouldn't have any of it. So one thing I'm wondering about is how are the souvenir helmets and mini-bats they sell not weapons? How is a shoe, cell phone, or camera (all of which are a lot harder than a helmet) not weapons? We ended up just locking our helmets to our bike and it was fine, but doing so always makes me nervous and leaves helmets pretty vulnerable to getting smashed by passers by. The way I see it, PNC Park either doesn't want you to be safe on your bike ride over, or doesn't want you to ride your bike at all.


rick
2010-07-18 13:51:43

That's not an official stance as I've brought my helmet in to PNC before. I guess it differs from each security person.


noah-mustion
2010-07-18 14:05:35

This is more "Fear the Different". It's not a rational position, so rational argument is irrelevant. It's rooted in a combination of conformism and status anxiety. I'm not going to psychoanalyze it here on the Internet, but maybe over beer...


lyle
2010-07-18 14:22:15

I guess next time I'm going to bring up that policy you mentioned, and bring some food and water in a soft-sided 16x16x8 cooler. But, that policy also says no weapons of any kind, and the guy was saying that my helmet was a weapon. I would argue that its a defense, not a weapon.


Anyhow, I'm going to e-mail and/or call them tomorrow, and I have a connection to some higher management there who is going to talk to them. I'll keep everyone informed about what happens.


rick
2010-07-18 14:32:41

Letting a helmet in is definitely a lot safer than giving out souvenir baseballs, I don't remember the situation but several years ago on souvenir day, somebody errored and a hail of thousands of balls came raining, or hailing, down on the field. It was hilarious. I think that was the last time they did that.


edmonds59
2010-07-18 14:37:17

I said in another thread (it may be somewhat un-PC / insensitive) but someone should try to keep their helmet on as they go through security, tell the guard you've got some medical condition and that you wear the helmet to protect your head.


dwillen
2010-07-18 15:09:53

From the Pirates Website: "For the comfort and security of all Guests, hazardous or disruptive items cannot be brought into PNC Park. Samples of these items that are not permitted include boom boxes, infl atable balls, balloons, motorcycle helmets, Frisbee discs, laser pointers, fireworks, footballs and weapons of any kind. The Pirates reserve the right to inspect and remove any packages and/or containers."


Perhaps they view bicycle helmets as a similar "threat" as motorcycle helmets.


That said, I took my 4-year old to a game last season via bike. We put our helmets in a back pack (because I didn't want to leave them on the bike, and I didn't want to have to juggle helmets and a 4-year old. We passed through security, they looked at them in the back pack, and there was no issue.


It sounds like the Pirates need to address bike helmets specifically and communicate that policy to their security people.


FYI, here is their bike policy: "Bike racks are located outside the ballpark on Federal Street near the Roberto Clemente Bridge entrance to the park and at the southwest entrance near the Allegheny River. Bikes are not permitted inside the ballpark."


atleastmykidsloveme
2010-07-18 15:24:26

You could just lock you helmet to the bike. I do this at most places for short stops. I don't really like having to carry my helmet around.


igo
2010-07-18 17:01:19

yeah. i'd say if they're going to put up bike racks they should definitely address the helmet issue.


noah-mustion
2010-07-18 23:13:53

I emailed the PNC park/ Pittsburgh Pirates thru their contact on the website and pointed them to this post and asked them to please clarify the policy.


dbacklover
2010-07-19 00:26:01

My brother and I biked to a game last season and came in with helmets in our backpacks, no problem. You might have gotten a different answer if you'd gone to the next gate and had a different security guy.


ieverhart
2010-07-19 01:17:58

Ieverhart

That may be true but they need to have a clear and consistent policy, and educate their security on that policy


dbacklover
2010-07-19 01:21:49

1. this thread title is horribly misleading. how can you make such a leap in what the management at pnc park feels in regards to safety in cycling via this singular instance. anecdotal evidence. also, why can't leave your helmet with your bike? you're obviously locking it, why can't you lock your helmet with your bike as well if you're that concerned about it? it's not like concern for security at a sporting event is something new. i know that if i brought my whole messenger bag in it'd be a hassle so i choose not to. it's not like this is a new thing. just deal with it.


2. everyone in this thread that is outraged is overreacting.


steve-k
2010-07-19 05:00:40

I'm pretty sure that aside from the title of the thread, no one is over-reacting


rubberfactory
2010-07-19 09:55:47

why can't you lock your helmet with your bike as well if you're that concerned about it?


i know i don't like to leave my helmet out at my bike for long periods of time, locked or not, especially in an area with heavy (drunken) foot traffic like a ballgame, SS, etc. who knows what some jackass might feel to do...


noah-mustion
2010-07-19 11:19:56

Regardless of the outcome, PNC Park should be informed of the inconsistency. My bet is on not allowing them, as they state on their website that motorcycle helmets aren't allowed - death by association.


I think I posted a pic on another thread as an example of how to lock up your bike and helmet with a U-lock: over the rear wheel, behind the downtube and through a vent hole in the helmet.


sloaps
2010-07-19 11:22:38

Come to think of it, I'd be really upset if I was trying to get in with a motorcycle helmet, a good mc helmet can be 400 - 500 bucks. That would be me walking away from a game. If I went to games.


edmonds59
2010-07-19 11:26:51

I've seen a number of dogs peeing on bikes and it's made me seriously reconsider locking my helmet up with my bike.


sarah_q
2010-07-19 13:28:07

Never thought about a dog peeing on a bike...


rsprake
2010-07-19 13:38:12

If you are strictly following manufacturers instructions, helmets are designed for one crash. You have some fool plow his bike into yours attempting to lock it up, or some drunken bucs fan kicking random shit take aim at your helmet, you'll probably have to buy a new helmet - as those incidents qualify as a "crash" as far as the integrity of the helmet is concerned. If you stick your lock through a vent hole, it doesn't take much force at all to crack the foam that surrounds that vent.


I never leave my helmet locked to my bike. Some people do and that is fine, but I've seen some pretty banged up helmets locked to bikes. I guess it probably protects your head better than nothing, but I'd rather have an undamaged one, if I had to pick.


A bike helmet is so light and collapsable. I'm not sure how they think this qualifies as a weapon. I could take my shoe off and do more harm with that.


dwillen
2010-07-19 14:02:21

this gif needed to happen right now



erok
2010-07-19 14:05:25

Can't someone edit that with Cavendish chucking his helmet out of the bus?


atleastmykidsloveme
2010-07-19 14:07:23

i'd consider being outraged if i was disallowed with a messenger bag, considering i've brought in plenty of bags of similar size that weren't messenger bags. it would strike me as moderately prejudicial.


also: in order for a helmet to be a weapon, there would have to be someone else at the game for you to hit!


hiddenvariable
2010-07-19 15:31:21

Everyone,


We understand that this isn't an ideal situation. We should be able to bring our bicycle helmets inside to make sure they aren't tampered with. But, there is a big difference between not allowing helmets inside and actually "supporting unsafe cycling."


BikePGH has finally, after 8 years of existance, made a contact at the Pirates and they are supporting us through our silent auction this year at BikeFest. I'm sure we can raise this concern with them. Let me see what I can do.


scott
2010-07-19 15:59:48

So, I'll agree that the title was taking things a little too far, but thats how you get attention, right? I would say a more accurate title would be "PNC park does not support safe cycling." because after all, if they did, they would allow me to take a friggin helmet in. Not allowing a bike helmet in is simply ridiculous, as it can in no way be any more harmful than any object that is currently allowed into the stadium. It made me feel like they were singling me out, for no good reason.


We did talk to another security guy there about it, this one wearing a cop-like uniform (dont know if he actually was a policeman, didnt look that hard) and he told us that what the guy in the yellow shirt says goes.


I just don't want my helmet getting crunched.


rick
2010-07-19 19:49:12

PS, I don't think that the Pirates' management had anything to do with this, I'm pretty sure that the park is sort of a separate entity. I could be wrong on this though.


rick
2010-07-19 19:50:19

if the pirates' management had anything to do with it, your helmet would've been traded away long ago.


hiddenvariable
2010-07-19 20:52:14

No one discouraged you from wearing a helmet while cycling. Would a parallel be if they questioned everyone who wanted to come in by asking if they wore their set belt if they drove?

For those worried about locking their helmet to the bike, I am surprised you don't worry about the bike more than the lid.


helen-s
2010-07-19 21:19:45

Helen,


Actually it would be more precise if when you went to park your car the PNC parking lot they told you that no seatbelts would be allowed in the lot.


Personally I don't think this is what PNC is trying to say, I believe it is due to an unclear policy that never thought to take into account the growing numbers of people who choose to ride Bicycles instead of cars. It could also be a policy that is dictated by some insurance rule.


The fact is we don't know what the actual ruling on Bicycle helmets are.


One of the things I find so refreshing about this group here is that while we can be vocal about the injustices done to cyclist I believe and have heard that we can be just as vocal about the positive as well.


This one thing more than anything else keeps me coming back here.


dbacklover
2010-07-19 21:37:55

I've been to Heinz field for Pitt games where they have the gates open early to get autographs from the players. Once a seven year old and his father in front of me were told he could not bring his real leather ($$) football into the stadium because it was dangerious and could be thrown and hurt somebody. Not more than 50 feet inside the gate is a souvenier stand, and yup, they sell footballs!


Moral of the story: Bringing a bicycle helmet into the stadium has nothing to do with anyones secuity. A littly authority goes a long way... remember the G20?


marko82
2010-07-19 22:06:50

"Actually it would be more precise if when you went to park your car the PNC parking lot they told you that no seatbelts would be allowed in the lot."

Or maybe that "no seatbelts woudl be allowed in the stadium." They are not saying don't wear a helmet.

Again I make my point that for those worried about their helmet being damaged while locked to their bike, what about the bike? If I were worried about my helmet locked to my bike, I would worry aobut the bike even more.

For some reason I keep coming back, but I do get tired of the negativity or people worrying about what might happen. I prefer to have confidence that bad things won'd happen, but if they do, then I will deal with them. I refuse to live in fear in all aspecta of my life, despite the former adminstrations efforts. I do take precautions while necessary, but trust things wil be alright in the end.


helen-s
2010-07-20 01:52:33

8 out of the top 10 threads right now are positive.


rsprake
2010-07-20 03:27:58

I believe that we are a rather positive group. Like I said it is the positive feel of the group that keeps me coming back here. I am always happy to see some great biking news or hear about some cool biking event (that I most likely will miss - grrrr)


I also think it is important for each of us to make items like this known, not because PNC park is on a mission to destroy the biking community (which I don't believe) but so that light can be shed and PNC Park (in this case) can be made aware of a grievance.


Lets face some facts if Ricky had just emailed PNC park about what happened the chances are slim to none that anyone from PNC would get back to him. A group of people addressing the same problem has a much better chance to be heard. I emailed PNC and have heard nothing back, I don't know if anyone else here emailed them as well (and linked to this post) and asked for an explanation of the policy. I would be willing to bet that if everyone who posted in this thread also emailed them and simply asked for some clarification of the policy (no threats, no demands, but civil discourse) then I believe that we would hear back from them.


Unless they hear from a number of people about the same topic they have no reason to respond


dbacklover
2010-07-20 13:51:33

helen, also keep in mind that a helmet locked to a bike is MUCH easier to ruin than the bike itself. if you lock through a vent all it takes is one drunk guy walking into it the wrong way to put a crack in the foam. not to mention beer getting spilled on it, dogs peeing on it, etc etc. i stopped locking my helmet when came out of the movie theater on the southside one night to a helmet with beer soaked pads and little dribbles of beer between the hardshell and the foam. disgusting.


cburch
2010-07-20 14:21:20

I bike to one or two games a week when the bucs are in town (yes, I love punishment). I always leave my helmet locked to my bike. Never had any problems, ever, never any, none. We always park at the racks right into front of the left field entrance (right under the bleachers GA). There's alot of staff/security etc in that area so I don't worry much about my helmet being intentionally vandalized. I usually prop my helmet up on my water cages to prevent it from being crushed if someone parks next to me, but the racks there are "doubles" so its difficult to damage someone's helmet unless you're just trying to do it on purpose.


I've never found biking to a bucs game to be anything but nice. Parking (my bike) is a snap, leaving (on my bike) is a snap, never had problems bringing my messenger bag in, surprisingly the suburban idiots driving through downtown (so far) have not pulled any dangerous driving feats in my vicinity etc etc etc. So far, I haven't had any helmet vandalism, peeing, or beer spilling.


If Heinz Field has similar bike resources, I can't find them. Anytime we see football we have to lock to light posts, signs, trees (yes, I know ...), etc. In the past, I haven't been able to find any biking info on the Heinz Field site. Anyone with bike tips for Heinz please post 'em up as I've decided to be punished by the Pitt Panthers this year instead of watching boy quarterbacks with disguisting & criminal off field

behavior (although, the Panthers may be headed there too if the recent news is any indication).


Sorry you ran into a guard who wouldn't let your helmet in. I suspect the motorcycle helmet mention on the web page may have fueled their concerns. I suspect there is an interesting story behind the ban on motorcycle helmets....I doubt that is posted on the PNC website just by whim. Try to get the situation rectified through PNC management, but at the end of the day keep in mind that biking to a baseball game is pretty damn awesome and the fun helps alleviate the pain of watching the Bucs "clinch" their 18th loosing season.


ccrider
2010-07-20 14:57:09

I always leave my helmet on my bike, everywhere. I usully hang it from the U lock, but not really locked.


I've never had any problem. Even when my bike has been vandalized, the helmet was OK.


mick
2010-07-20 15:28:47

Checked with the Pirates/PNC Park and bicycle helmets are unfortunately not allowed into the ballpark. They consider bicycle helmets to be 'hard sided items' and thus prohibit them from the ballpark for security purposes. They will be updating their Web site and policy manual to make it more clear going forward, and will also reiterate the rule to the security staff. We would love to work with them to update their policies to become more bike friendly in the future. Like I said before, this is just the beginning of this relationship so we hope that with a little time and some good communication we can make some progress together.


In the meantime we suggest that people who ride to the games use the racks around the periphery of the stadium and use a U-lock to secure helmets with the bike. We have not heard of any instances of helmets being tampered with to date. Concurrently we will try to work with the Pirates to revisit this policy.


Riders could also consider parking in the Cultural District downtown and walking over the Clemente bridge. There are 21 wall-racks at the Bike Commuter Center and all of the downtown Pittsburgh Parking Authority Garages have free sheltered bike racks, some even near an attendant.


scott
2010-07-20 16:46:28

Scott,


Thank you for the information, I think what we all wanted was a clarification on the policy.


dbacklover
2010-07-20 17:18:15

so we can get it changed!


maybe. but i do believe bicycle helmets ought to be allowed, even if motorcycle helmets are not. and i rather think motorcycle helmets ought to be allowed, though i'd like to hear if there are stories that support the opposite view.


hiddenvariable
2010-07-20 17:23:31

They consider bicycle helmets to be 'hard sided items'...


I am glad to hear that they have clarified the policy. It seems, though, that they have a warped sense of what would constitute a security hazard. In their defense, they are likely following the lead of the Transportation Security Administration's lead of "security theater", i.e., make it look like they are increasing security by doing certain things when in fact those things have little to no (or negative) effect on increasing true security.


So, yeah, OK, we clarified the policy. Now, can we talk?


stuinmccandless
2010-07-20 18:05:18

Does anyone want to go to the pirates game on august 8 vs the colorado rockies?


It's kid's batting helmet day! free batting helmets 14 and younger! bring the whole family!




erok
2010-07-20 19:25:04

ooo ooo and sept 17 is Roberto Clemente Bronze Bust Day!!




erok
2010-07-20 19:26:42

did the blind girl from the lionel ritchie video sculpt that?


cburch
2010-07-20 19:30:05

you're saying there's no resemblance?




erok
2010-07-20 19:31:25

resemblance, maybe. accuracy and anything even slightly flattering, not so much.


cburch
2010-07-20 19:33:06

Is it a bronze-coated bobblehead?


reddan
2010-07-20 19:47:42

Actually, a bike helmet may come in handy those days to protect your head when the give aways get thrown.


rsprake
2010-07-20 20:02:04


Look at what they're doing on the other side of the state.


dwillen
2010-07-20 20:14:52

I thought you were kidding about the bronze busts. You're not.


Never mind throwing the damn things, I want my helmet on just in case someone drops one from the seat above (falls off lap, whatever).


Just exactly what is their reasoning on the bike helmets, again?


stuinmccandless
2010-07-20 20:19:57

Batting helmets and bronze busts are NOT "hard-sided objects"???


Who knew?


mick
2010-07-20 20:26:06

i wonder if they'd let this bike helmet in:




erok
2010-07-20 20:29:54

No, but I bet they'd sell it to you.


atleastmykidsloveme
2010-07-20 20:35:29

so i went to a game a few years back and they gave away pirate hardhats. HARD HATS. they're hard. and they go on your head. helmets are hard and they go on your head. if i can find it, maybe next time i go to a game i will ride my bike and wear my hard hat in and see if they say anything about me carrying a bicycle helmet in with me. or vice versa.


stefb
2010-07-20 21:50:03

I think that bust is actually Doc Ellis, self portrait.




edmonds59
2010-07-20 22:17:14

that or doc sculpted it while "enhancing" his performance.


cburch
2010-07-20 22:23:00

In the meantime we suggest that people who ride to the games use the racks around the periphery of the stadium and use a U-lock to secure helmets with the bike.


My solution is much simpler. Don't go.


I never had a problem going in with a helmet before, but if they "clarify" their policy to force me to leave it behind, then I guess I'm not going to bother buying tickets only to be turned away.


Not that it's such a great sacrifice -- I'd rather be biking than sitting on my butt watching someone else have all the fun anyway.


lyle
2010-07-20 23:15:43

lyle,


i have a feeling that nobody is having fun at a pirates game...


noah-mustion
2010-07-20 23:38:51

i'm sure the opposing teams enjoy the batting practice


erok
2010-07-20 23:40:31

Ow, I'm not even a fan and that hurt.


edmonds59
2010-07-20 23:48:28

I think I'll just avoid the headache and continue my long-standing policy of not attending. They don't need nor deserve my money.


joeframbach
2010-07-21 16:11:33

@Joeframbach They don't need nor deserve my money.


True enough, but how is refraining from attending going to prevent those billionaire owners from shaking down your elected officials to pay for an unneeded stadium?


You still pay.


mick
2010-07-21 16:25:21

Dan and I were talking about a Flock to Pirates ride....


ndromb
2010-07-21 16:27:15

Helmets strongly discouraged!


dwillen
2010-07-21 16:30:58

Nick, you can buy group tickets and your names up on the score board. Could be a "flocky" way to get PNC Parks attention.


rsprake
2010-07-21 18:38:07
For those who are excited about the Pirates in the playoffs and would like to bike to the game, helmets are now allowed! http://pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com/pit/ballpark/information/index.jsp?content=ballpark_guide BIKE PARKING/RACKS Bike racks are located outside the ballpark on Federal Street near the Roberto Clemente Bridge entrance to the park and at the southwest entrance near the Allegheny River. Bike helmets are permitted inside the ballpark. Bikes are not permitted inside the ballpark.
mpm
2013-10-02 09:25:10
Wow! That's a great update! Thanks for sharing!
swalfoort
2013-10-02 10:52:23
Haha, tell them to correct the other two references in the policies that still says they're not.
rice-rocket
2013-10-02 11:18:17
Swalfoort wrote:Wow! That’s a great update! Thanks for sharing!
Yes, it is. The first time I took my helmet inside the park, earlier this year, the gate attendant scrutinized it for a bit and decided that it "looks like a motorcycle helmet, but it has holes... so it's OK to come inside". Additionally, I requested the PNC Park add more bike racks, they (Mr Coonelly) got back to me within hours with this: "Thanks Colleen. We installed additional racks last year on the Maz Way circle. Looks like we may need to add even more. Let me see if we can come up with an appropriate solution."
rustyred
2013-10-02 12:39:01
Oh, my, that makes me tear up. Beautiful.
edmonds59
2013-10-02 12:51:31
They're on the ball
sgtjonson
2013-10-02 14:20:45
send him back info on bike corrals!
cburch
2013-10-02 18:27:52
I've locked my helmet by the straps to my bike hundreds of times without incident. Has anyone actually had bad things happen to a helmet that was locked to their bike here or anywhere else in pittsburgh? And if so, what happened?
benzo
2013-10-03 08:05:13
I don't even lock my helmet to my bike. Although it is not a particularly special helmet. I just connect it to the frame near the lock and have been doing so for over a year without incident.
faunaviolet
2013-10-03 08:10:08
Benzo wrote:I’ve locked my helmet by the straps to my bike hundreds of times without incident. Has anyone actually had bad things happen to a helmet that was locked to their bike here or anywhere else in pittsburgh? And if so, what happened?
I no longer take the helmet in with me. It's a big pain to lug that thing around a packed stadium. I've started leaving my helmet locked with a cable through one of the holes or straps in the front basket. I think the worst thing that will happen to it is it'll get rained on.
rustyred
2013-10-03 08:16:44
I don't go to games. I can't sit that long.
edmonds59
2013-10-03 08:25:44
edmonds59 wrote:I don’t go to games. I can’t sit that long.
For the rest of this season, you won't need to be sitting.
wbt
2013-10-03 08:36:23
Benzo wrote:I’ve locked my helmet by the straps to my bike hundreds of times without incident. Has anyone actually had bad things happen to a helmet that was locked to their bike here or anywhere else in pittsburgh? And if so, what happened?
Isn't the big problem with helmets that they're single-impact? So if someone bumped into your helmet with force or dropped something on it, you could pick it up and never know it had been damaged until the day you need it, when you find out the foam was cracked and the helmet's safety compromised.
mpm
2013-10-03 10:47:44
Yes. Theoretically this could happen. So could someone peeing in it, or putting a bomb in it, or filling it with hamsters, or hitting it with a sledge hammer. Have any of these happened to you, or anyone you know in pittsburgh?
benzo
2013-10-03 11:02:30
A helmet being filled with hamsters would be the cutest thing to happen to my helmet. I hope this happens to me.
faunaviolet
2013-10-03 11:26:50
'Helmet Filled With Hamsters' will be the name of my TMBG tribute band.
reddan
2013-10-03 11:41:23
If I come across a horde of cheap stuffed hamsters for some reason, maybe I'll fill my backback and put them in cyclists' helmets. As for my own helmet, sometimes I lock it by the strap and sometimes I just hang it off the handlebars. Does anyone really want a stolen used sweaty helmet anyway?
andyc
2013-10-03 11:50:07
Googling things like "bike helmet peed" "bike helmet vandalized" and "bike helmet theft" return very little. Theft only looks to be common with motorcycle helmets and I found nothing in the way of testimony about someone getting their helmet whizzed in. I think this is just urban legend, that's why I lock my helmet to my bike now. I'm loving the idea of my helmet getting hamstered though.
rustyred
2013-10-03 12:13:26
Easter grass and plastic eggs would be cool also.
edmonds59
2013-10-03 12:30:58
Benzo wrote:Yes. Theoretically this could happen. So could someone peeing in it, or putting a bomb in it, or filling it with hamsters, or hitting it with a sledge hammer. Have any of these happened to you, or anyone you know in pittsburgh?
I wouldn't know, and I hope you or I never find out. That's the point. Foam helmets can be damaged without any indication according to the manufacturer, and by far less force than a sledge hammer. Anyway, I wrote to the Pirates organization and they fixed the rules on the website so they're unambiguous -- motorcycle helmets are not permitted, bicycle helmets are.
mpm
2013-10-03 14:14:33
I think somebody kicked my helmet at the hardware store in Ambridge or maybe now that I'm thinking about it, hit it with a shopping cart or buggy as they're called there I think that was in '07 and haven't had any issues since. If I'm going in a store I just leave it on, but if I'm going to show or something, I stick it on the bike, sometimes through the lock, sometimes not
sgtjonson
2013-10-03 14:49:12
Another update after a bit more pestering of Pirates management: "Colleen, We will be ordering additional bike racks for General Robinson Street. We did add bike racks to both Mazeroski Way and Federal Street over the past couple of years. Thank you again for your email. Dennis"
rustyred
2014-04-14 10:14:53
I'm getting a framed picture of those things for my wall when they're installed.
rustyred
2014-04-14 10:21:52
Meanwhile, in Chicago... it couldn't be easier to see the Cubs play the Pirates. I just left my helmet with the complimentary bike valet outside the gate!
headloss
2014-04-14 11:26:25
Drewbacca wrote:Meanwhile, in Chicago… it couldn’t be easier to see the Cubs play the Pirates. I just left my helmet with the complimentary bike valet outside the gate!
Dang. #jealous
rustyred
2014-04-14 12:05:55
the only reason i take my helmet with me is the light i have mounted to it is worth more than the helmet and sometimes i still leave it un locked . Who would want a used helmet ?
cowchip
2014-04-15 18:20:11
Drewbacca wrote:Meanwhile, in Chicago… it couldn’t be easier to see the Cubs play the Pirates. I just left my helmet with the complimentary bike valet outside the gate!
So, do we put it in the big empty cul-de-sac at the bottom of Mazeroski Way, or in the middle of Federal, which is closed during games anyway...?
epanastrophe
2014-04-24 11:01:36
^there is a parking lot directly across the street. Take out 3 or four parking spots, charge $3 per bike & you could make money off it. Capitalism! (wink)
marko82
2014-04-24 13:36:32
They're here!
rustyred
2014-07-02 22:31:58
@Colleen, YES! Good job! thank you for your perseverance! Do you have a name or an email of someone with the organization that we can send an email to to thank them? Or should we just use the racks heavily, as our sign of thanks?
swalfoort
2014-07-03 08:28:15
They really could have put some corrals here instead of just single racks, But progress is progress. They still need many many more.
benzo
2014-07-03 08:34:30
Whoever runs the kayak rental under the bridge should consider a bike valet service. They already have staff there, not so sure about space though. I think a lot of folks would pay $3-$5 to not have to worry about you bike.
marko82
2014-07-03 08:48:10
I would totally pay cash if someone would store my bike, helmet, and messenger bag securely while I'm at PNC Park, Heinz field, at stage AE (which has a no bags, helmets, or damn near anything policy), etc.
benzo
2014-07-03 09:34:48
@Marco - that's Venture Outdoors that does Kayak Pittsburgh and the rentals under the bridge. You have a good idea. I don't know that they have the space or organization for it right now, but it sure could be a good deal for everyone if they could work something out. Money maker for VO and peace of mind for folks that want to cycle to PNC Park. You should contact them.
srpit
2014-07-03 14:56:33
I have a friend who works at Kayak Pittsburgh, and passed along the suggestion.
stuinmccandless
2014-07-03 16:11:01
Colleen, You are welcome and as always thank you for your interest and support of the Pirates/PNC Park. Go Bucs! Best Regards, Dennis ______________________________________ Subject: Re: Bike racks @ PNC Park? Hello Mr DaPra, I rode by the park last night and noticed the new racks! This was a delightful sight! Again, many thanks!
rustyred
2014-07-04 07:44:45
(huh. mb still can't figure out how to display links inline with nearby text, but apparently it auto-embeds twitter content now. ooookay...)
epanastrophe
2014-07-21 18:53:32
@buffalo, good idea. Maybe I'll tweet my photos from Bucs vs. Cubs day at Wrigley and tag @pirates there too. never mind, just did it. :)
headloss
2014-07-21 21:48:27
"Anyway, I wrote to the Pirates organization and they fixed the rules on the website so they’re unambiguous — motorcycle helmets are not permitted, bicycle helmets are." Given that the title of the thread is no longer (and never was) accurate, can one of the mods please change it? It seems to be bordering on libelous at this point, and given that most of what's being posted ITT these days is positive towards PNC Park, the title sends a message that is incompatible with the content herein. Maybe just remove the "UNSAFE" from the title?
jaysherman5000
2014-07-22 09:24:28
I have to agree with JaySherman5000 on this one. PNC Park is and has been definitely stepping up.
lizzimac
2014-07-22 10:57:55
I love the joint valet/storage idea for N Shore venues. I went to the Nickel Creek concert last night, and had a huge "wrangle" w security. They wouldn't even let me bring in my bike light, and there was no way I was leaving a $200 light set out on the street "at my own risk." Eventually ended up riding back downtown, parking bike at the office and walking back to Stage AE. Considering the insane traffic in the area it would be great if the other venues would start stepping up like PNC Park seems to be doing. Excuse my rant, but I'm still really annoyed with their security staff - esp since this was Nickel Creek - not Insane Clown Posse. LOL.
sillyartgirl
2014-07-23 16:44:13
I didn't realize Nickel Creek was touring... :(
headloss
2014-07-23 19:00:45
Is that like Nickelback, with water features? And yeah, someone change the title, this is what happens when you opt for sensationalism.
rice-rocket
2014-07-24 01:38:10
Going to the big football match at the ketchup stadium on Sunday, will probably bike at least part of the way there. Yes, some decent parking facilities would be nice.
edmonds59
2014-07-24 07:59:39
"Maybe just remove the “UNSAFE” from the title?" I agree, I keep forgetting who to pester to moderate forums stuff, help? So, I discovered today that the Pirates installed EVEN MORE racks along Maz Way!
rustyred
2014-08-15 12:13:48
I believe Erok is the main moderator. Don't know how closely he pays attention to individual threads, though, so it might be necessary to PM or email him directly.
epanastrophe
2014-08-15 12:35:09
Roger that.
erok
2014-08-15 13:13:17
Denver stadium is not only opening a valet, but you can use their bike share bikes too. http://denver.cbslocal.com/2014/09/15/broncos-b-cycle-introduce-bike-valet-system-at-home-games/ The article doesnt state it, but I guess the idea is that if you had to "dock" a B-bike at the stadium there would be no way of assuring that one would be available to ride after the game. It would suck if you pedaled there but then had to walk back because there were no B-bikes available- especially if its a few miles. This ties up the use of the B-bike for the length of the game, but it might tempt some to ride the B-bike that normally wouldnt. Does anyone know if this situation has been discussed with respect to Pgh.s bike share system?
marko82
2014-09-16 09:00:35
That's cool - looks like they waive the extra usage charge for the duration of the game (most bike shares seem to have 1-2 hour time limits).
rgrasmus
2014-09-16 09:58:42
Just wanted to say I biked to Friday's game at PNC Park (my first time riding to the game). It was a sellout and just about every bike rack was in use. It took a little effort to find one but, I did find one! Clearly biking to the game is a popular idea. They could benefit from having even more racks.
igo
2014-09-22 06:12:05
My wife and I were riding through the North Shore on our way to and from Lawrenceville's PARKing Day mini golf Friday night. On our way up the new Penn Ave track, we passed a large group of young cyclists in full fan attire and toting a large Jolly Roger flag on their way to the game. On our way back through later in the evening (around the 3rd inning), my wife observed how full all of the bike parking was as we came off of the Clemente Bridge. And it proved to be just as full as we circled around to the other side of the stadium. Truly an impressive sight, and one that made us proud to be on two wheels! How much longer until the Pirates take the next step and start hosting bike themed promotion nights?
smarchit
2014-09-23 16:27:36
One of the things I've noticed around the stadiums is how MOST of the bikes locked up during the games are only using a cable lock. I even saw four bikes at the Pitt game locked as a group by using one very thin cable and a cheap combo lock. I hate when ANY bike is stolen, but if a noob has a bike stolen they may never decide to use a bike as transportation ever again - a double loss! A bike check-in would really be nice.
marko82
2014-09-23 17:04:27
How much longer until the Pirates take the next step and start hosting bike themed promotion nights? There is some sense to this. I wonder how many people don't go to Pirate games primarily because of traffic jams and the cost of parking. If they could instead promote the idea of parking four miles away for free, and biking down and tying up at a rack for free, without any traffic or parking holdup to speak of, then it would be money in their pocket. Pay a little overhead for a bike valet, and suddenly their attendance goes up. The $20 they're now spending on parking is $20 not spent on stuff inside the stadium. That $20 overhead is keeping others from even showing up. How many is that? 50 attendees? 200? Hey guys in the front office, you're missing the boat. Get them to buy into that idea, and it benefits everyone.
stuinmccandless
2014-09-23 19:58:37
I didn't see a single bike locked to a tree the last two games I attended. Twas an good thing to (not) see.
rustyred
2014-09-23 20:12:48
My spouse person was walking through the park today and overheard an announcement on the PA system: Both motorcycle and bike helmets are *not* permitted. This seems to be a step backwards. I'm going to email Mr DuPra to see A: why this conflicts with info on the website and B: WHY?!? Seriously, WHY? I have taken to mounting lights on the helmet that are a pain to remove and replace every game, UGH.
rustyred
2015-04-01 17:09:40
Good to know that your spouse is, in fact, a person. :p Look forward to hearing what's up, I'll jump on the phone to complain if need be!
headloss
2015-04-02 08:20:55
"Colleen, I’m sure the announcement was an old one so we have our staff checking with the scoreboard/Entertainment group to make sure the message is correct. You are permitted to bring in bicycle helmets. Thank you for the well wish for Opening Day. Best Regards, Dennis" *PHEW*
rustyred
2015-04-10 12:22:22
I'm encountering some resistance and confusion. I had 4 gate security guys conferencing around my helmet yesterday. So silly. "Hello again Mr DaPra, Unfortunately, the announcements seem to be confusing the gate attendants, the 'No bike helmets' announcements are still being broadcast as of yesterday's afternoon game and I get resistance at gate security. Thankfully, each time there's been at least one employee who is aware that the announcements are erroneous and is willing to correct the employees who insist that the helmets aren't permitted. Thank you for any help you can provide, Colleen"
rustyred
2015-04-24 09:25:59