Boston Launching Bike Sharing Program
BOSTON (CBS/AP) - Boston is joining other major cities including Washington and Paris by starting a bike sharing program that will allow residents and visitors to rent bicycles for short trips in and around the city.
Officials say the system is scheduled to open in July with 600 bicycles stationed at 61 kiosks around the city. The goal is have as many as 5,000 bikes at 300 kiosks.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Jim Smith reports.
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Memberships will range from $5 for a day to $85 annually.
"Yeah, that's a pretty reasonable expenditure," said Mayor Tom Menino.
Mayor Menino is scheduled to sign a three-year, nearly $6 million contract Thursday with Alta Bicycle Share to build and operate the system, called Hubway.
"It's good for the city. It's good for the environment It's good for exercise. It's a good way to stop congestion in our roadways. It's part of our effort to make Boston a workable city and an environmentally safe city," said Mayor Menino.
Menino speaks with WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Jim Smith:
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The program's startup costs are being financed by grants and donations, while corporate sponsorships and revenue from riders will cover annual operating expenses.
Cambridge, Brookline and Somerville all plan on developing similar programs in the future.
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