Bike Sharing Moves Forward, Preps for Summer Kiosk Installations

After being delayed in August, Chicago’s new bike sharing program is one again moving full steam ahead with area officials already choosing where they plan to place bike kiosks.

Federal funding was recently approved for the program, according to Sougata Deb, Ald. Tom Tunney’s (44th) director of infrastructure and special projects. That means it’s time to start selecting where the hotly anticipated kiosks will land—and fast.

Deb says the kiosks are scheduled to be installed by June.

But while Tunney’s ward is slated to receive 28 sharing stations and Ald. Ameya Pawar's (47th) ward will receive 22, it’s unclear how many the 32nd ward will get. But according to Ald. Scott Waguespack's Chief of Staff Paul Sajovec, residents shouldn’t be disappointed.

“We had a meeting with the folks at CDOT who are working on the locations,” Sajovec said. “They are proposing locations and asking the Alderman for input. At this point we don’t know for certain how many there will be, but it will be a significant number in 32. Initially the focus is on CTA stations, major retail districts, etc.”

The high number of kiosks is likely due to the high number of requests the Chicago Department of Transportation received from residents. Back in October the department launched a bike sharing suggestion map where neighbors could pick a spot they’d like to see a kiosk, and then vote on them.

Sitting where Division Street meets Ashland and Milwaukee avenues lies the highest demanded bike kiosk in Chicago with 137 votes.

“Central hub from Blue Line, 3 bus lines, and key cycling avenue,” the vote suggestion reads.

Other locations with high votes include the corner of Milwaukee, North and Damen avenues with 79 votes and at the Clybourn Metra station with 41 votes.

Chicago is hoping to add 3,000 bikes in the sharing program, with plans to increase that number to 4,000 by 2014. Riders can buy a one-day pass for $7, or a yearly pass for $75. The first 30 minutes of every ride is free, followed by a $1.50 surcharge for an extra 30 minutes.

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