New Bike Racks Provide Secure Parking Option for Virginia City & Gold Hill Cyclists
Virginia City residents and visitors now have a new place to safely park their bikes and scooters while exploring Virginia City and Gold Hill, thanks to an FY25–26 Storey County Community Project Grant.
The project, proposed by Virginia City resident and Storey County employee Lisa Maciel, funded the installation of bike racks at five locations throughout the community. Maciel said the idea came from her own experience as a cyclist and resident who regularly rides her bike to work when weather permits.
“My husband and I, along with a friend who applied with us, have lived in Virginia City for several years, and we genuinely enjoy being part of this community,” Maciel said. “We love spending time outdoors, attending local events and staying active.”
Maciel said bikes and scooters have become an increasingly common way for residents and visitors to get around, but Virginia City lacked designated areas where riders could securely store their equipment.
“When we visit other cities, towns or communities, we often bring our bikes or scooters with us, and in most places there’s always a designated spot to lock them up securely,” she said. “Here in Virginia City, we didn’t have that option.”
With many e-bikes and scooters costing thousands of dollars, Maciel said, leaving them unsecured can be a concern for riders.
The lack of bike parking also raised concerns about protecting Virginia City’s historic infrastructure. The town’s wooden boardwalks and historic buildings can be vulnerable to damage from heavier bikes, e-bikes and scooters.
Maciel said bike racks provide a simple solution by keeping bikes and scooters off fragile surfaces, reducing potential damage to historic structures and providing a secure location for riders.
The racks were installed at the following County-owned locations:
- Historic Courthouse, south side of the building
- North-end rest area
- Justice Court/Divide Fitness
- Gold Hill Depot, south side
- Western parking area above the middle school at 141 South D Street
The locations were selected based on accessibility, proximity to C Street and other popular destinations, and the ability to reduce congestion in high-traffic areas.
Maciel said the project will also benefit residents and visitors who travel to Virginia City by bicycle, including cyclists who make the ride up Geiger Grade.
“Having a secure place to lock up expensive equipment gives people peace of mind,” she said.
The new bike racks are also expected to support local businesses by making it easier for cyclists to stop, explore and spend more time in town. During large events, when parking can be limited, bike parking provides another transportation option for visitors.
The project was funded through the FY25–26 Storey County Community Project Grant program, which allows residents to submit ideas for projects that address local needs and improve quality of life throughout the community.
Sara Sturtz, Storey County’s Grant Manager, said the program is designed to support projects that come directly from residents who understand their communities best.
“The Community Project Grant program gives residents an opportunity to identify needs they see in their own neighborhoods and turn those ideas into meaningful improvements,” Sturtz said. “These projects are a great example of how community members and the County can work together to create solutions that benefit both residents and visitors.”
Maciel said programs like the Community Project Grant are important because they allow residents to help shape improvements throughout the County.
“Community-driven projects often have the biggest positive impact on everyday life,” she said. “They help preserve our historic character while meeting modern needs.”
