Bike sharing allows individuals convenient access to a bike when they need one, without the hassles and costs associated with private bicycle ownership. The idea behind bike sharing is to provide free or affordable access to bicycles, specifically for short-distance trips within city limits. While bike sharing first emerged in cities across Europe, today it is becoming increasingly popular in the U.S. Some of the early adopters of the bike share system include Denver, CO; Minneapolis, MN; Chicago, IL; and Washington D.C. By successfullyintegrating a bike share program into existing transportation systems, cities can ensure that a greater number of residents have access to affordable, efficient, and sustainable transit options.

Rationale

Bicycling can replace the need for individual car trips - especially for traveling short distances within a city. By doing so bicycling can reduce overall gasoline consumption and production of carbon emissions, resulting in improved air quality. A safe and connected bike network can also reduce traffic congestion and the need for increased parking facilities. In addition to benefits to the natural and physical environment, bicycling can also improve the overall health and wellness of residents by promoting a more active lifestyle and can serve to create a stronger sense of place and community. Financially, bicycling is one of the most affordable modes of transportation and can serve to increase mobility and access to goods and services within a community for those unable to reach these destinations by car or other forms of public transportation. Bike sharing programs provide an opportunity for cities to promote and facilitate bike ridership in a community and demonstrate their commitment to active, healthy, and alternative forms of transportation.

Effort Required

While the specific components of bike share systems may vary by city, successful programs tend to involve the following elements, each requiring different levels of effort and engagement on behalf of the city:
 

• Assess and improve existing bicycle infrastructure to ensure the adequate provision of bike lanes, path networks, and stations
• Revisit existing transportation and land use plans and policies; conduct feasibility studies to identify opportunities to incorporate and expand bicycle infrastructure throughout the city.
• Prior to implementation, conduct research on private (banks, healthcare providers, non-profit organizations, or advertising companies) and public (local, regional or federal grants) funding opportunities.
• Partner with local non-profit organizations or other community partners to provide basic education on cycling, maintenance and road safety.