You’ve seen them all over town – those new blue bikes with the distinctive baskets. In its first month, PeaceHealth Rides, Eugene’s public bike share system, has attracted 3,747 active members. Those members have taken 20,701 trips, logging a total of 27,726 miles. “Our first month of operations exceeded expectations in terms of high ridership from the start,” said Lindsey Hayward, general manager for PeaceHealth Rides. “It’s exciting to see the community embrace bike share as a new transportation resource.” PeaceHealth Rides launched on April 19, with 300 bikes, 35 stations in Eugene and one at PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center at RiverBend in Springfield. The stations are clustered near Eugene’s downtown core, the Whiteaker neighborhood and the University of Oregon campus. PeaceHealth Rides is an environmentally friendly transportation alternative to cars and buses. For a modest charge– $1 for 15 minutes or $15 a month for most users—riders can pick up and drop off bicycles for one-way trips. Under a special launch promotion, new members can sign up for their first month for $2. Riders are strongly encouraged to follow the rules of the road and to always wear a bike helmet.
