Inspired by successful public bike sharing programs in Paris,
Copenhagen,Barcelona and Holland's Hogue Veluwe National Park, the
availability of bikes this summer will test the concept of free bikes
proposed by Rotterdam's West 8 firm, co-designers of the Island's
future park land. Free Fridays means that "visitors can come from all
over New York City, and even the world, and experience the joy of
riding a bike in this incredible place," says Adriaan Geuze, West 8's
principal. The city's Transportation Commissioner, Janette Sadik-Khan,
adds: "The Island will also serve as a great testing ground. We'll be
evaluating the program to see if it is something that may be successful
in other parts of the city."
Let the fun begin. The Bike and Roll company, which already rents bikes at locations
in the Hudson River Park and the South Street Seaport, stands ready to do the same near the ferry dock on the Island. Rentals on Saturday and Sunday are $5 for a half-hour. On Fridays they're free, thanks to Transportation Alternatives, an Alliance member and longtime advocate for relieving the city's traffic congestion. The free bikes are for an hour, first-come first-served.
The bikes for grown-ups - 100 of them - are known as "beach cruisers," essentially single-gear models with balloon tires, comfortable seats and coaster brakes. Bike and Roll also has 20 children's bikes and two "tagalongs" to hitch on the back of a bike for pint-sized passengers.
Bikers must bring a photo I.D. or a credit card. Helmets are required for children under 14 and are available for anyone else who wants one. Riders under 18 must have an adult sign a waiver.
Let the fun begin. The Bike and Roll company, which already rents bikes at locations
in the Hudson River Park and the South Street Seaport, stands ready to do the same near the ferry dock on the Island. Rentals on Saturday and Sunday are $5 for a half-hour. On Fridays they're free, thanks to Transportation Alternatives, an Alliance member and longtime advocate for relieving the city's traffic congestion. The free bikes are for an hour, first-come first-served.
The bikes for grown-ups - 100 of them - are known as "beach cruisers," essentially single-gear models with balloon tires, comfortable seats and coaster brakes. Bike and Roll also has 20 children's bikes and two "tagalongs" to hitch on the back of a bike for pint-sized passengers.
Bikers must bring a photo I.D. or a credit card. Helmets are required for children under 14 and are available for anyone else who wants one. Riders under 18 must have an adult sign a waiver.