Paving The Way For A Parking Lot

It's a definite sign of the times.

Today alone, we told you of two Austin art institutions—Gallery Lombardi and Iron Gate Studios—closing their doors. Now, add to that another local organization: The Yellow Bike Project.

For the uninitiated, YBP is a non-profit, volunteer run, community supported bicycle shop on East 51st Street. They act as a local bicycle advocacy group, teach bicycle maintanence, operate a pro bono bicycle shop for the community, and place spray-painted yellow bikes on the road for all Austinites to share.

However, all of this is going to have to change. As the old Robert Mueller Airport is transformed, the YBP warehouse will be torn down. Since their current warehouse is on loan from the city, many believe they will soon be given a new home. But it's surely an uphill battle to find adequate and inexpensive space in a city where it's few and far between. From their website:

The Yellow Bike Project is looking for a secure, permanent, warehouse space so that we can continue the great work that we've been doing for the past 9 years. For the last 8 years, our space has been generously donated by the City of Austin; however, it is in an old airport building that is destined for demolition and redevelopment in the ongoing Mueller Airport Redevelopment. We don't know how much longer we will enjoy the wonderful space we currently live in, and are working hard to find a new space before our time runs out. We would greatly appreciate any help anyone can give us to acquire our new space.

As always, Yellow Bike is always accepting donations. Monetary donations can be done at the shop or through Pay-Pal. YBP is also always accepting material donations, such as quality bikes, quality bike parts, and tools of all kinds; and, of course, volunteers are always needed.

Photo courtesy of ybp