Most of you know the City of Rochester plans to launch the first phase of its Bike Share program this spring.
“The first implementation phase will place stations throughout downtown, in surrounding neighborhoods, along Rochester’s trail system, and near major institutions and employment centers throughout Rochester.” The goal of that first phase is about 30-35 stations with about 250 bikes. [Zagster]
It will be operated by Zagster and is NOT funded by the City of Rochester. Each station requires a sponsorship of $9,000 to operate for 1 year. That means it is up to the community and corporate sponsors to really get this thing started.
Reconnect Rochester just kicked off a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for bike share stations in neighborhoods that are not likely to get many corporate sponsors. The goal is 5 stations between the Public Market and the Rochester Intermodal Station [See the map below]. But even raising enough for one station would be a huge start!
Reconnect Rochester Crowdrise Campaign
Why should we support a bike share system in Rochester?
Because it makes our community more walkable, bikable and accessible — whether you drive a car or not. It gives people transportation options, complements other modes of transportation, helps support local businesses, encourages people to engage in healthy behaviors and will improve quality of life of residents. Services like bike shares help move our communities forward (literally and figuratively).
And if we can get this thing going strong in the city and core areas, it will expand from there. We’d, of course, love to see a station along Schoen Place and beyond.
Sponsorships are due by the end of January and Reconnect Rochester is hoping to give a boost to areas not likely to get a lot of sponsorship interest. If you are a regular cyclists, an infrequent one or never ride your bike but like the idea of supporting a bike share, consider making a donation to Reconnect Rochester’s campaign.
If you donate $20 or more, you’ll get this cool Bike Rochester NY sticker:
Click here to learn more about the campaign or donate now.
Can’t donate, but love the idea of supporting these neighborhoods who might get overlooked by corporate sponsors? Share the Reconnect Rochester Crowdrise Campaign with them or just forward this post.
Let’s get more people biking in the 2017!