Pittsburgh To Revamp its Bike Share System With E-Bikes, New Stations

Pittsburgh's bike share system is getting an overhaul after hitting record numbers in its seventh year of operation, reports Ed Blazina.

"The agency rolled out its new system, called POGOH, featuring lighter, sturdier bikes at a news conference at Highmark Stadium Wednesday. The new system replaces Healthy Ride in about three weeks and current users will have to register again when it begins operation."

The system will also feature 200 new electric-assist bikes (half of the 400 bikes that will be added to the fleet) and 38 new stations. The new bicycles feature a more accessible design, according to David White, executive director of the city's bike share program, that will allow the system to drop its minimum age from 16 to 14.

By the end of the year, the agency plans to add 65 more new stations and 300 bikes. According to the article, "The system will continue to be sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and the Allegheny Health Network. The agency also has received grants from the Heinz Endowments, the Hillman Foundation and the Richard King Mellon Foundation," along with a federal DOT grant.

"Since it opened in 2015, Bike Share has charged $2 for a 30-minute ride. The new system will charge $3.50 for each 30 minutes on a pedal bike and $5 for e-assist." People receiving government assistance will be eligible for a reduced rate.

"Bike Share had to completely rebuild its system because the previous supplier, nextbike, shifted its concentration to Europe, leaving Pittsburgh as its only American client. Additionally, that system used 3G equipment to communicate, and the three major suppliers of that system shut down earlier this year." The system will be supplied by Montreal-based PBSC Urban Solutions going forward.