The privatization of the Chicago’s parking meters and the subsequent switch to pay-and-display consoles has resulted in thousands of bike parking spaces – in the form of the meter posts – being removed.  This fact could turn out to be a boon for local artists.  Earlier this month, the City of Chicago’s Transportation Committee authorized an innovative public art program, which some believe may rival the popular “Cows on Parade” program.  The City of Chicago will ask local artists to design decorative bike racks that double as pieces of public art.  The idea of bike racks as sculpture is already being tried in a few cities around the country -- Los Angeles, Pittsburgh, Louisville, and San Antonio.  Within our region, the Village of Algonquin in McHenry County also initiated a similar program.