Nice Ride Minnesota

Programs: Nice ride minnesota's primary program is the operation of a public bike sharing system. The system (201 stations and 1,850 bikes in 2017) creates a simple, low-cost alternative transportation solution to increase physical activity levels, reduce congestion, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and auto emissions, and enhance urban vitality. The system complements public transit and car-sharing programs, providing greater transportation choices. The purchase of equipment is funded through public and private contributions. Approximately 60% of operating costs are covered by subscription and fee revenue; the remainder is covered by private contributions.

the neighborhood program was developed with funding through blue cross & blue shield mn center for prevention. Core strategies of the program included: purchased high quality commuter bikes for use in north minneapolis, frogtown, and east st. Paul communities where urban bike share was not fully utilized. Assigned 280 bikes to individual program participants for use through the bike sason (may-october). Partnered with community leaders develop community-based events and lead rides, introduce new participants to bicycling, encourage active living, and monitor individual progress. Rewarded active program participants with a gift certificate at the end of the program to encourage individual bike ownership and active lifestyles. The neighborhood program was transferred to northpoint health and wellness center, inc. On june 1, 2017. All remaining bcbs funds for this program were paid to northpoint to continue running the program through 2017.

the greater mn program was developed with funding through blue cross & blue shield mn center for prevention. Core strategies of the program included:(1) pioneer new tools-not urban bike share-tailored to small cities. (2) create a focal point for cycling activity and active living culture in small cities(3) support local bike shops by contracting for operating support. Nice ride bemidji kicked off in june 2014. 100 bicycles are available for rent by visitors and residents in three locations within bemidji; bemidji state university students had 100 bikes available for rental and university programs. The program also featured free two hour rentals for bemidji residents. Operators have seen the benefits of marketing their town as a bike place and are supportive of efforts to add signage and infrastructure development to make cycling between the hotels and downtown more intuitive. In 2015, the program was expanded to include longer term rentals for participants in dedicated program with a local doctor.

nice ride launched in rochester in spring, 2016 with a rental program focused on recreational use by hotel guests - with a focus on active living and active transportation choices. Building on the learning in other pilots and to capitalize on the dynamics of the destination medical urban redesign process, we hired staff and provided resources with an eye toward developing relationships with business, government, and grass roots partners. 200 orange bikes were transferred to rochester (a small portion was deployed in 2016). Bikes were available for rental at two locations; people's food coop and peace plaza. We see the current initiatives as critical to laying the groundwork for a future urban bike share system and to building on current interest in active transportation.