Bike Sharing
Bike sharing allows individuals convenient access to a bike when they need one, without the hassles and costs associated with private bicycle ownership. More than 25 cities across Europe have already implemented bike sharing progams. The most successful is Velib in Paris. Velib is available 24/7 and boasts more than 20,000 bikes spread throughout the city. Montreal also has a successful bike sharing program (BIXI) and Minneapolis plans to launch a bike sharing program, made possible by federal funding, in fall of 2009.
RATIONALE
Bicycling reduces the amount of gasoline used, decreases harmful emissions into the atmosphere and improves air quality. It also reduces traffic congestion and the land needed for parking, and connects residents to the city in which they live. Bike sharing helps to increase the overall health and wellness of residents who use the program by promoting a more active lifestyle. Bicycling is one of the most affordable and sustainable modes of transportation and can be both encouraged and promoted through the creation of a bike sharing program.
EFFORT REQUIRED
Little to medium, depending on the level of city involvement. At the least, the city could provide initial funding for the creation and/or maintenance of a bike sharing program.
BENEFIT
- Reduced traffic congestion
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions
- Reduced parking demands
- Increase overall health and wellness of participants
RISKS
The main risks associated with bike sharing programs are related to infrastructure, funding and liability.
ACTION AGENTS
Action agents could include all of the following:
- A sponsoring community development or non-profit organization
- A local government
- A regional transportation/planning agency
COST
Varies, depending on the level of city involvement.
