To Combat Inversion, GREENbike Stays Open Year-Round for the First Time;
Non-profit bike share extends season without raising prices
Press Release: SALT LAKE CITY, UT (March 21, 2016) – For the first time in its five-year history, GREENbike, Salt Lake City’s non-profit bike share program, did not close for the winter. Typically, the non-profit’s season runs from April through December. According to GREENbike management, the decision to stay open was to provide more transportation options during the valley’s winter inversion.
“The single largest contributor to our region’s air quality problem is cars. If we’re going to call ourselves a transportation alternative, we should be available to our community all year,” said GREENbike executive director Ben Bolte.
Some annual passholders have already conveyed their gratitude. Kyrene Clarke, GREENbike Member since 2015, “I’m thrilled that the bikes have stayed out and available through the winter. Because of this, I’ve been able to maintain my daily routine and rely on the convenience of GREENbike (rain, shine, or snow) to get me to and from work.”
According to GREENbike, 1,800 people have taken 13,000 rides since December 15th, 2016, the date GREENbike typically closes for the season. 82% of those rides were taken by people who had already purchased annual passes.
Though their season has increased by three months to 365 days a year, GREENbike promises not to increase annual pass prices, which range in cost from $35-$75 per year ($.10-$.20 per day).
“This decision isn’t about making money. It’s about helping clear our air,” said Bolte. “I’m thrilled we’re giving our annual users more days of riding for the same price. Thanks to SelectHealth’s renewed commitment, we can provide this extended service and make a larger positive impact.”
For more information on greenbike, see https://greenbikeslc.org/
