By Virginia Korte
The lack of a robust public transportation system in our city is one of the reasons the new bike share program is an overwhelming success – which, I believe, is a creative way to address our mass transit shortcomings.
Citizens’ participation in the program is nothing short of amazing. In just the first three and a half months since it was initiated, there have been approximately 110,000 what the bike companies call “rides.” In fact, during the Parada del Sol Parade earlier this month, they tracked about 4,000 rides.
It’s these kinds of statistics that have made Scottsdale one of the most successful markets in the country for bike share, according to the bike companies.
Admittedly, the rapid success of bike share has created several challenges. But none of them are insurmountable. While it’s the responsibility of the bike companies to ensure that bike share works efficiently, our city staff is working closely with the companies to make sure the program meets our community’s standards and expectations.
One of the primary issues being addressed is the distribution of the bikes. Companies are tracking trends so bikes are beginning to be located where riders use them most.
Bike share is a new program that doesn’t cost taxpayers a cent. I expect the program will reach an equilibrium very soon that will make it even more successful.
Sincerely,
Virginia L. Korte