For many years now, people in major metropolitan cities have been using companies like ZipCar and Hertz on Demand to share rental cars by the hour for short city trips. But are you ready for shared bicycles?
The New York City Transportation Department seems to think so, as they plan to implement a unique bike sharing system next summer, with 10,000 bikes and 600 rental stations throughout much of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Here’s how it will work:
• Bikes will be available 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week.
• The first 30 minutes of any ride will be free, with a fee for additional time.
• Bikes may be picked up at one location and dropped off at another, or the rental can be a round-trip.
• Stations will be spread around the city, from the Upper West Side in Manhattan to the outer-lying Greenpoint and Crown Heights neighborhoods in Brooklyn.
• An annual membership will cost less than a NY Subway MetroCard (which is currently about $100 per month).
• Portland-based Alta Bike Share will install and manage the entire bike sharing infrastrucure.
Imagine grabbing a bike for a quick run to the local post-office, or to meet friends at Starbuck’s for a latte, or for just a leisurely spin along the scenic Hudson River. You rent the bike for your allotted time, then simply leave it at one of the pre-determined stations for the next person to use.
City officials say the bike sharing concept will help residents access short trips within the city, especially those trips that are across town and require complicated subway and bus transfers. They also acknowledge that pedaling will promote exercise and a healthier lifestyle among New Yorkers.
