Pittsburgh Yellow Bike Program

This Idea has been promoted to the Top 20. 

Idea Overview

A cooperative, membership-based network of free bicycles for use through community affiliated sites, designated bike racks, and various keyholder locations

Idea Round Up Concept Sheet

Who worked on idea?

Mike Virostek

What is the idea?

A cooperative, membership-based network of free bicycles for use through community affiliated sites, designated bike racks, and various keyholder locations

How would idea work?

All of the bikes would be designated by their uniform color/design pattern. They would be available throughout citywide locations simply by showing one's card (obtained by a small initial fee and bike deposit), then receiving the lock key to obtain available bike. These bikes are to be used for a determined amount of time, and then returned to an appropriate rack or location. Fees charged for late drop off. Membership charges pay for upkeep, costs...

Pluses:

• Fostering independence through alternative transportation
• Increased awareness/usage of bike trails and city network
• Increases bicycle usage, tolerance, health, wellness

Concerns:

• Theft - somewhat mitigated by "membership" orientation/restricted use, access to lock key
• Vandalism - mitigated by unique, colorful aspect to bike that renders it somewhat safe
• Injury - mitigated by waiver at time of member signing

Community opportunities:

• Bike Pgh
• Free Ride
• Critical mass
• Commuters who are tired of traffic, gridlock, costs of automobiles
• Short-trip pedestrians
• Environmentalists that drive