In an effort to reduce our carbon footprint, the concept of city bike shares has taken the country by storm. The idea of renting a bike to get where you need to go is brilliant considering most bus systems operate on a limited schedule making leaving the office late or commuting on a Sunday a challenge. Not only is biking a cost-effective alternative to filling the gas tank, but cities that have implemented the program are finding it gets more cars off the road and encourages people to lead healthier lifestyles. While European cycling meccas like Amsterdam have led the bike share pack for years, these U.S cities are just a few of the places adding this option to their public transit repertoire.
Ashland, Oregon is a hip college town known for its bike and pedestrian-friendly downtown. The Rogue Bike Share program was newly introduced just this year as yet another step towards an eco-friendly city. Conveniently located alongside the bus stop, folks can now skip waiting for the next transfer, and cycle to their next stop. No stranger to alternative transit, Ashland’s “car-free” day event encourages residents to leave their cars at home and take advantage of incentives like free refreshments, and complimentary bike tune-ups.
Nashville, Tennessee’s welcoming southern spirit is best enjoyed on two wheels, and the city’s B-Cyle program is the perfect way to explore. With convenient membership options ranging from 24-hour rentals up to annual passes, getting into the rhythm downtown, or enjoying a scenic ride along a 180-mile greenway is as easy as picking up your bike of choice, and returning it when the adventure is over. Nashville’s walkable city center is easily accessible for commuters, and tourists, or anyone who agrees on fresh air, and a myriad of bike routes is the only way to travel.
Washington, DC is home to iconic attractions and the Capital Bikeshare system where 440 stations throughout the city give active adults the chance to immerse themselves in rich history, without sitting in traffic. For a modest rate, cyclists can rent a bike for a quick 30-minute trip, up to the yearly membership, with a mobile app feature to check availability. DC is notoriously affluent, and abundantly monumental with a lively urban atmosphere, and boasts a network of beautiful trails.
Across North America, and all over the world, bike share programs have proven to be a great way to improve the health and environmental sustainability of participating cities. Both functional, and economical, this growing trend is definitely worth the ride.
