Commuting Solutions and BCycle, in collaboration with local governments and businesses, are exploring the feasibility, cost and implementation of a bike share system that would encompass Boulder, Broomfield, Boulder County Erie, Lafayette, Longmont, Louisville, Superior, and Westminster. The system would utilize electric bikes provided by BCycle that could be checked out and used to travel within and between these communities.
As part of the study, Commuting Solutions and BCycle have been hosting demonstrations at community events throughout the region. So far interest at these events has been high. The public has had the opportunity to test out a BCycle e-bike and learn more about what a regional bike share system could look like. There are still a number of events upcoming, so be sure to check out future dates at http://commutingsolutions.org/bikesharestudy.
We are also conducting a public survey to gauge interest within the region. Your input is invaluable. Please take a moment to take the public survey here.
The Benefits of Bike Sharing
The benefits of bicycling are plentiful! Bike share programs are great for the occasional bike rider. You don’t have to own your own bike, of course. Bike sharing can be cost-efficient and a great way for visitors to explore a new travel destination. Bike riding is an excellent way to exercise and contribute to a healthy lifestyle, and bicycles can take you to interesting places you can’t always get to in a car.
Bikes can help transit commuters close the crucial “last mile gap” of a commute. When their bus, van or train’s last stop is still a mile or so from their destination or workplace, a bike share program can help them get from door-to-door faster. Bike share programs are often located near transit stations, allowing a commuter to get on/off a bike quickly and efficiently at their last/first transit stop.
And of course, bike sharing provides an excellent alternative to having to own a car, for some. With a bike, you have the freedom to easily get around your own town for work or play, sometimes quicker than a vehicle could get you there.
Connect to Existing Bike Pathways
Given the northwest region’s extensive network of bike paths and trails, you will be able to connect flawlessly to other communities using a bikeshare program. Find a map to the region’s existing biking pathways here.
We hope the bike share feasibility study will be completed by 2024. Any determined next steps will begin soon after, so we can get you out and about to explore the northwest region with a bike as soon as possible!
