Baltimore Rolling Out Bike Share Program
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- If the idea of bumper to bumper traffic has kept you from hitting the road, you might want to consider downsizing and joining Baltimore's new bike share program.
The city just unveiled its plans to launch the program, which is expected to provide the largest electric bike share fleet in North America starting this .
Starting this fall, WJZ's Tracey Leong explains, 500 bikes will be available to rent across Charm City, offering a healthy way to get out and explore.
"When you hear about cities that have a great biking reputation, it boils down to two things: protected bike lanes and bike share," said Caitlyn Dolan, bicycle and pedestrian coordinator for the city department of transportation.
The program, which is an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to driving, will offer a mixture of electric pedal-assist and traditional bicycles. The bikes, which will be outfitted with GPS, will be available for rental at stations around town.
The multi-million dollar initiative comes as Baltimore adds more bike lanes and trails to accommodate cyclists and promote healthy living.
"We are gathering a lot of public input on where stations are going, some of the pricing and other factors," said Jay Decker, bicycle share coordinator.
The department of transportation is working with the community to find the most convenient locations for the program, which is still in its nascent phase.
Officials anticipate the program will add 80 new jobs.
To share your input, you can attend any of the following meetings:
- Aug. 23 - 28 Ostead Street (South Baltimore Learning Center) between 6-7:30 p.m.
- Aug. 25 - 26 S. Fulton Avenue (Bon Secours Works building) between 6-8 p.m.
- Aug. 30 - 227 S. Exeter Street (St. Leo's Church) between 6-8 p.m.
