MADISON, Wis. — Madison BCycle and the city of Madison have renewed their operating agreement for another 10 years.
A news release from Monday said the agreement also contains an option to renew the operation for an additional 10 years after 2030.
“BCycle has become an important part of Madison’s transportation system over the last 10 years, and I’m delighted that we are renewing our contract with BCycle until 2030” said Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway. “I’m looking forward to another decade of innovation in transportation, including integrating BCycle with the BRT system. Thanks to all the folks at Trek, BCycle and the City that have made this possible.”
Madison BCycle launched in 2011. In that time, the electric bike share program has generated over 1 million rides and now has 50 stations with 300 electric pedal-assist bikes.
The company was the first bike share system in the country to fully transition to e-bikes in June 2019.
“In this changing and uncertain environment, we believe it’s more important than ever to create effective and adaptive bike infrastructure,” said Helen Bradley, General Manager of Madison BCycle. “We will continue to grow our station footprint and provide safe, accessible transportation by bike; renewing our operating agreement with the city is a very encouraging step in making that happen.”
An annual survey said more than one-third of Madison BCycle users reported driving their cars less because of the program, while nearly half of riders said they were getting more exercise because of the service.
The company hopes to expand the system on East Washington, South Park Street and into new neighborhoods. As such, more e-bikes will be added throughout Madison next year.
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