Hoboken, Weehawken, Jersey City To Launch Regional Bike Share Program
NEW JERSEY (CBSNewYork) -- The cities of Hoboken, Weehawken, and Jersey City are teaming up to launch a regional bike share program by this upcoming summer.
The program is expected to be the largest next-generation bike share system in North America, 1010 WINS reported.
"Bike sharing is an affordable, sustainable, and convenient transportation option," Hoboken Mayor Dawn Zimmer said. "We are excited to partner with leading innovators to bring this next-generation system to our residents, businesses and visitors at no cost to taxpayers. I am proud to build upon our successful pilot bike share program and work with our neighbors in Jersey City and Weehawken to create a regional system."
Jersey City Mayor Steven M. Fulop was equally enthusiastic, saying he is proud to take a step toward a greener, more bike-friendly city. "Providing a new transportation option throughout the city while simultaneously reducing pollution, traffic congestion and demand for parking is a home run, especially given that it won't cost the taxpayers a cent."
Weehawken Councilwoman Rosemary Lavagnino expressed excitement for her city to participate in the program. "This program will allow residents to leave their cars at home while still giving them access to Weehawken and their neighboring communities."
Bike and Roll, the largest bike rental company in the United States, will operate the program.
"Bike and Roll is excited to have been selected to operate this cutting edge bicycle sharing system for Hoboken, Jersey City and Weehawken," said President of Bike and Roll Chris Wogas.
The company will use bicycle technology manufactured by Nextbike, a leading operator and supplier of bike sharing systems.
Rather than a system that relies on smart docks, which requires expensive infrastructure, this program will feature smart bikes, which relies on bikes with built-in locks and communications equipment.
The smart bike is expected to provide more flexibility at a fraction of the cost of traditional bike share systems.
According to a news release, the program will be funded through sponsorships, advertising, and user fees. The three cities will receive a percentage of profits after capital expenditures have been recouped.
Customers will be able to choose from an array of purchase options, including annual, weekly and daily memberships.
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