If you've ever wondered what all the hubub was regarding bike-sharing--programs are thriving in Paris, London, Washington D.C. and Montreal--you can check it out today and Friday in Center City. Bike Share Philadelphia is sponsoring a pair of demonstrations with Oregon-based Alta Bicycle Share Company.

Today's demonstration will go down in front of the Academy of Natural Sciences (1900 Ben Franklin Parkway) from 4-8:30 p.m. The academy will also be hosting a panel discussion called "Cities for Cycling: Innovation in the Fast Lane," featuring nationally recognized transportational officials.

On Friday, a demonstration will be held at Love Park (15th and JFK Blvd.) from 9 a.m.-2 p.m..

San Francisco recently announced a regional bike share program and Boston and Baltimore are in the planning stages for programs of their own.

"It's time for Philadelphia to stop coasting and start pedaling harder to catch up with other American cities instituting public use bicyclingt, or bike-sharing, to help east transportation congeston, reduce pollution and make a healthier city," says Bike Share Philadelphia founding member Russell Meddin.

How would it work in Philly? Bikes would be placed at secure stations throughout the city. To use the bikes, individuals can sign up, online in advance or at a station kiosk. For a nominal access fee (daily, weekly or yearly, bikes are available for the first 30 minutes of use at no charge. There would be a small daily fee for each additional half hour, and bikes can returned to any station in the city.

Source: Russell Meddin, Bike Share Philadelphia
Writer: Joe Petrucci