(Loren Bonner/WNYC)

NEW YORK, NY October 01, 2008 —Bike riders have a new place to park in the city. On Astor Place, officials have installed 10 colorful and geometric bike racks to encourage more cycling. Paul Steely White from Transportation Alternatives praised the effort.

STEELY WHITE: These new racks, particularly if they're installed in copious quantities, will really go a long way toward removing the last barrier that really keeps New Yorkers from discovering the joy and efficiency of bicycling.

REPORTER: The bike racks are from a design competition that drew 200 participants from 24 states and 26 nations. Five of the 10 finalists are from New York City. The winner will be announced Oct 24, and the new racks will be placed all over the city beginning early next year.