bikeshare expectations

[shootingstar]

My partner is one of the subcontractors for Vancouver's installation of its first bikeshare system. It's pretty weird to know the backstory of work and deadlines, when in the media and on the 'Net, chatter what people expect or anticipate.

Will be interesting to see usage. Vancouver has the mildest weather in Canada and it does get lots of tourists who come specifically to enjoy the city for a few days.

I did listen to former Transportation Commissioner for NYC, Janette Sadik-Khan. It was felt NYC should install more bikeshare stations near public housing, etc. I guess. Would locals use it after a month? Would be more cost-effective to buy a used bike/refurbished bike from a bike co-op.

I actually think the greatest uptake might be if there is a huge influx of commuters who occasionally visit a big city for meetings/shopping/occasional big events or for tourists. As a tourist, I really am not comfortable launching off on a bike and just cycling anywhere downtown in congested areas. I like to plot a route first.. I've always been like that. I know myself on a rented bike.