C . Bike Sharing Programs
Bike sharing programs , typically run by municipal governments or community groups , allow people to shift easily from other forms of transportation to bicycle and back again . This promotes bicycle sharing as an easily accessible alternative to motorized travel and enables residents to become healthier through exercise . Bike sharing programs have been operating successfully in Portland , OR ; Madison , WI ; Washington , DC ; and in European countries ( Figure 7.8.7 ).
Bicycles should be made available for shared use by individuals who do not own bicycles . The sharing program should provide for use of a bicycle for short trips inside a “ bike zone ,” thereby reducing traffic congestion , noise , and air pollution . Bike share programs typically require a small deposit to prevent theft .
Design Criteria :
• Fleets should be distinctive , and clearly branded .
• Bikes should come with full fenders , chain guards , and bike locks .
• Global positioning systems ( GPS ) unit and / or other tracking mechanism should be mounted .
• Provide rack or kiosk for collecting bikes using a credit card or smart card .
• Provide instructions on where and how to return bicycles .
• Provide information on pricing and contact information to report damage .
• Provide a computerized system to check bicycles in and out .
• Provide maps of nearby stations and recommended bike routes .
• Determine direct capital cost ( bikes and terminals ) operating cost , ( administrative , maintenance , power ), associated capital cost ( construction of system , sidewalk improvements ) and the associated operating cost ( maintenance ) prior to making a commitment to develop a bike share program .
• Develop a public private partnership in operation of bike share program .
Figure 7.8.7 . Examples of bicycle sharing programs .
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