Bike Share Conference Brings Operators From Across The Country To Philly
By Steve Tawa
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A two-day conference is underway in Philadelphia bringing together Bike Share operators from all over the country.
Many are learning from the experience, even though Philadelphia wasn't among the first to launch such a program.
They are working at the intersection of transportation and equity, bringing in people from other cities who have Bike Share or intend to launch systems - including Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Oakland, Portland, Atlanta, Austin, and Memphis.
Zoe Kircos of PeopleForBikes, a Boulder, Colorado based national advocacy organization, says Philadelphia made sure the Bike Share program here was accessible and available to everyone.
"Not all people have a credit or debit card that they can use to get a bike. Philadelphia created other options, by really spearheading that cash membership option, allowing people to pay cash for it."
She also says the Philly system was "intentional and thoughtful" about locating stations in low-income neighborhoods, by working directly with community-based organizations.
The conference includes mobile workshops that will have participants hopping on Indego Blue bikes and pedaling around town, to visit stations, and partners like Neighborhood Bike Works and the Mural Arts program.