In case you haven’t seen the stations (there are over a dozen in LoDo), or the bright red cruiser bikes out and around town, you should know that Denver has launched the first city-wide bike sharing program in the United States. Modeled after successful programs in Europe, the Denver B-Cycle is just another example of how we are embracing new and innovative ways to improve our quality of life. The idea is to use the bikes for trips that are too long to walk, but too short to drive – perfect for those of us in LoDo. Here are some details on how it works:
Citywide Bike Sharing Program Launched on Earth Day, April 22nd
Did you know roughly 71% of Americans say they would like to bicycle more than they do now, and the #1 reason for not bicycling is lack of access to a bicycle? The City of Denver is taking action by launching Denver B-cycle–the nation’s first large-scale citywide bike sharing system. This summer, Denver B-cycle will have 450-500 red B-cycles at 50 stations throughout the Mile High City. At the time of the launch on Earth Day, April 22, Denver B-cycle expects to have approximately 40 stations and 375 bikes.
Here’s how it works:
Denver B-cycle members can pick up a B-cycle from any of the conveniently located B-stations and drop it off at any other B-station. B-stations are currently located throughout Downtown Denver, Capitol Hill, Cherry Creek and University of Denver, among other areas. Check out www.denver.bcycle.com for an up-to-date listing of B-station locations. You can sign up for 7-day ($20), 30-day ($30) or annual memberships ($65) online. You can also purchase the $5 24-hour membership at the B-cycle station with your credit card. Discounts are available for students and seniors ($45 annual membership.) Once registered in the system as a member, there is no charge for the first 30 minutes every time you check out a B-cycle from a station. After 30 minutes, additional usage fees apply that escalate every half hour thereafter, with a daily maximum of $65. And don’t forget — parking is even easier now that the Downtown Denver Business Improvement District (BID) has installed 100 new bike racks in Downtown Denver.
What is the impact of Denver B-cycle?
Denver B-cycle offers residents and visitors an alternative form of public transportation that supports the City’s Greenprint Climate Action Plan and the Strategic Transportation Plan. It is integrated into the larger multi-modal transportation system, including buses and the light rail. This multi-modal approach, along with over 358 miles of bike routes/trails and 300 days of sunshine, makes Denver the perfect city to launch a bike sharing system.
Register now at www.denver.bcycle.com and follow Denver B-cycle on Facebook and Twitter for more information.
