Successful Bike Sharing Program Now Needs Bikable Streets

In this editorial, the Denver Post applauds the early success of the city's new bike-sharing program (launched on Earth Day) but notes that what's missing is urban street infrastructure for cyclists though there are plenty of recreational trails.

1 minute read

June 29, 2010, 9:00 AM PDT

By Irvin Dawid


"Count us among those hopeful that the cleverly named B-Cycle network of 400 bikes conveniently located at 42 stations around town leads to long-term benefits for both the city and users."

The editorial goes on to distinguish recreational from commuter and utilitarian cycling. The new cyclists the program is spurring often are forced onto sidewalks as the roads themselves may not accommodates cyclists.

"(W)hile the attractive red bicycles now becoming a routine sight downtown are a nice fit with our city's active lifestyle, they also help draw attention to the lack of consistently reliable bike lanes along the primary streets and avenues riders share with automobiles."

From Denver Post, June 9: Denver Bike Sharing program spinning along after 6 weeks: "Six weeks after Denver launched the first large-scale municipal bike-sharing system in the U.S., its popularity is rapidly growing."

From Planetizen, June 11:Minneapolis Launches Public Bicycle Share: "Minneapolis follows Denver in launching it's public bicycle sharing program today."

Thanks to Ed Braddy

Wednesday, June 16, 2010 in The Denver Post

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

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