Northwest’s First Bike Share Launches in Seattle
Seattle, Wash.
It’s here! Pronto Cycle Share, Seattle’s first-ever bike share program, launched an initial 500 bikes and 50 stations to neighborhoods across the city on Oct. 13.
“This is an important day for the city of Seattle as we introduce new, progressive transportation options for residents and visitors alike,” says Seattle Mayor Ed Murray who hosted an inaugural ride celebrating the launch of the bike share. “I am proud that the city could help make this milestone a reality. We look forward to expanding the program to additional Seattle neighborhoods next year.”
Users can rent one of Pronto’s seven-speed commuter bikes from solar-powered docking stations located in the University District, Eastlake, South Lake Union, Belltown, Downtown, Pioneer Square, the International District, Capitol Hill and First Hill.
“We are thrilled to introduce bike share today to one of the nation’s most zealous cycling communities,” says Holly Houser, Pronto Cycle Share executive director. “This is a service Seattle residents and transportation advocates have long asked for and we’re excited to answer that demand today by rolling out Pronto Cycle Share.”
Pronto is the first bike share program in the nation to launch with a helmet distribution system to promote rider safety and to ensure users can easily comply with Seattle’s helmet laws. The system allows riders to check out a helmet at departure and then return it to any docking station at the end of their ride. From there, helmets are picked up, inspected and cleaned before returning to circulation.
Annual members get a voucher to redeem a free Pronto helmet from participating retail locations.
Annual memberships range from $85 to $125 per year. With the membership, users receive a computerized key fob to access a bike at a station. Members can take an unlimited number of rides up to 30 minutes for free, and incur nominal fees for longer trips.
Short-term users may also purchase one-day and three-day memberships for $8 and $16, respectively, with a credit or debit card at any docking station.
For the latest news on Pronto Cycle Share, go to: www.ProntoCycleShare.com
