Expect to see 500 new green-and-blue shared bikes on Seattle streets or docked at 50 stations on October 13. A press conference at Pioneer Square's Occidental Park will launch Pronto Cycle Share, largely sponsored by Alaska Airlines.
Pronto!, operated by Alta Bicycle Share, based in Portland, Oregon, is funded through private donations as well as user fees. In addition to Alaska Airlines' $2.5 million donation over five years, "Group Health is sponsoring 15 docking stations," writes Marc Stiles of the Puget Sound Business Journal. "Other sponsors include Seattle Children's Hospital, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Vulcan Inc., REI and Spectrum Development Solutions."
Image: Pronto Cyle Share
"Pronto is aiming at the riders who need a quick bike ride of 30 minutes or less because after that, the cost to rent the bike can escalate; all the way up to an extra $77 for eight hours," writes Stiles. For more information, see their pricing page.
Unlike many other bike share programs, Pronto's will be equipped with bike helmet rentals. Ben Miller of the Business Journal wrote in August that "helmets will be available to rent for $2 per day, or $1.50 per day for annual users." However, the FAQ indicates that "helmets can be borrowed at any Pronto station based on the honor system. Annual members will receive a voucher to redeem a free Pronto helmet."
Pronto! is looking to expand its corporate memberships beyond the aforementioned companies.
[Hat tip to AASHTO's Daily Transportation Update - 10/10/2014]
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