Pyeongtaek City's "Visiting Free Bicycle Repair Service," a life-oriented transportation welfare project, has successfully concluded its first half of operation, receiving an enthusiastic response from citizens. During the first half of 2025, the city toured eup/myeon/dong (administrative units) more than 60 times, providing free repairs for over 1,200 bicycles, significantly contributing to creating a safe and convenient cycling environment for citizens.

This service operates by directly visiting vulnerable road users, such as seniors and parents, who face difficulties with bicycle repairs. It provides practical assistance to citizens who find it hard to visit repair shops or lack information. This initiative is seen as a successful example of Pyeongtaek City's efforts, based on a citizen-centric administrative philosophy, to enhance mobility and promote bicycle use.

The free bicycle repair service offers complimentary repairs and inspections for minor issues such as tire punctures and replacements, brake adjustments, pad replacements, chain repairs, oil replenishment, and gear adjustments. It covers a wide range of services, from basic problems like flat tires to safety checks for children's bikes and even instruction on how to ride a two-wheel bicycle after removing training wheels. For major part replacements, only the cost of the parts is borne by the bicycle user, while the labor costs for technicians are fully supported. Service utilization is on a first-come, first-served basis by registering in a guestbook at the site. Members of "Jatanpyeong" (Pyeongtaek Riders), a bicycle repair volunteer group, participate by donating their talents, enhancing the quality of the service.

Citizen satisfaction with the service is very high. One senior citizen expressed gratitude, saying, "I couldn't ride my bike because I didn't know about repair shops, but they came directly and fixed it, so I can ride it again." A parent who visited with their child also couldn't hide their joy, stating, "I'm so grateful that my child's bike can run again." Workers responsible for on-site repairs also stated that they had "never received so many thanks," indicating that they feel great satisfaction from citizens' positive reactions.

An official from Pyeongtaek City Hall's Road Management Division stated, "Since March, numerous complimentary posts related to the free repair service have been uploaded to the 'Compliments' bulletin board on the Pyeongtaek City Hall website," adding, "As public officials, we feel a sense of pride and accomplishment."

Based on the successful results of the first half of the year, Pyeongtaek City plans to expand the service schedule and repair items in the second half to provide even more enhanced transportation welfare services to citizens. This is part of Pyeongtaek City's ongoing effort to realize "small but definite happiness that citizens can feel" and create an environment where all citizens can safely use bicycles. Pyeongtaek City's life-oriented administration is expected to contribute to improving citizens' quality of life and positively impact the local community.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]