Bluebikes Coming to Newton, Expected Later This Summer

NEWTON, MA — More cyclists from Newton may soon be heading out to Brookline, Somerville, Cambridge and parts of Boston, as the Bluebike sharing system comes to Newton as part of a two year pilot later this summer.

Bluebikes replaces Lime Bikes, the dockless bike share that operated in Newton until it pulled out earlier this year, as a bike sharing system. Although Lime Bikes could be found by GPS app and left nearly anywhere in the city, Bluebikes uses a "dock" system in which bikes are picked up and returned to five specific locations – or docks — that don't change location.

The program is paid for by a MassDOT Workforce Transportation grant of $80,000, with an additional $20,000 from City funding.

According to officials at Bluebikes, the program will be evaluated at the end of the term.

Although Lyft is the contracted operator, Blue Cross is in the third year of a six-year Bluebikes title sponsorship, which launched in 2018. Through its partnership with the municipal owners of Bluebikes, Blue Cross supports growth and expansion, including system upgrades, additional bikes, new mobile app features, and station expansions creating increased access.

Blue Cross is sponsoring a first ride free program throughout the month of August. If you're new to Bluebikes, you can download the Bluebikes app, create an account to get free ride.

“We’re thrilled that Newton residents and visitors will soon be able to rent a bike as part of the Bluebikes system. They will be able to pick up and drop off bikes not only in Newton but in neighboring communities including Watertown, Cambridge, Boston and beyond.”
Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller said in a statement.

Previously:

Lime To Pull Bikes From Newton

Bluebikes, Shuttle To Wells Avenue To Come To Newton ...

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