City of Riverside Launches Bike Riverside: The City’s First Bike Share Program
Published: 03/14/2019
Just finished up at the courthouse and heading to The Mission Inn? There’s a bike waiting for you. Classes over at Riverside City College and you want to grab a bite at the Food Lab? A bike will get you there. A few months ago, the City of Riverside launched its first bike share program, Bike Riverside, giving the public access to 55 electric pedal assist bikes that can be used for short trips in the historic downtown and adjoining areas.
Bike Riverside provides a mode of transportation that is affordable, non-polluting and easy to use. The pedal assist function makes the bikes attractive to people who are not used to cycling. Just start peddling and the bike’s electric motor kicks in, helping you get to your destination faster.
Bike Riverside is available in a variety of options, including a $2 single trip (45 minutes), a $6 day pass (unlimited 45-minute trips for 24 hours), or a $20 monthly pass (unlimited 45-minute trips for a month). Users sign up on the website – BikeRiverside.org – or use the mobile app, or pay at a payment kiosk where they pick up the bike.
City Council approved an agreement in April 2018 with Bewegen Technologies, Inc. to plan and implement a bike share program. The project cost, about $334,000, was funded by a variety of grants designed to improve air quality and reduce traffic. Bewegen established the fee structure, which is roughly 20 percent lower than in cities like Santa Cruz, San Diego, Los Angeles and Long Beach. “This will offer residents and visitors a fun way to explore our city,” Public Works Director Kris Martinez said.
"This truly is a proud moment that has been many years in the works. We know that pedestrian and bike traffic are major sales drivers for small businesses, and we look forward to seeing local residents, tourists, and conventioneers using the bikes to visit shops, restaurants and museums.” - Mayor Bailey
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