Back in April, Mayor Menino first announced Hubway, Boston’s bike-sharing program, and the program was met with wildly enthusiastic responses from BostInno’s Twitter followers. “Bike-sharing rules!” and “I’ll use that ish like, errday” were among the resounding responses that alerted Bostonians Hubway was going to be huge.
The program formally launched in July with over 600 bikes at 61 stations across the city, from Allston and Brighton to Southie, the South End and Roxbury. The launch drew in dozens of participants, like Mr. Mayor himself and various representatives from Hubway, MBTA and New Balance.
The system, which is like the bicycle version of Zipcar, allows riders to rent bikes for varying amounts of time on a sliding price scale: $5 for 24 hours, $12 for three days, or $85 for an annual membership. With the membership, you get a pretty rad keychain which serves as your key to unlocking your bikes, and it allows you two bikes per trip, so you don’t have to pedal across the city alone. Once paid up, simply press in your codes, and –volia! – out pops your bike.
In early October, just two months over its initial launch, Hubway celebrated its 100,000th ride, averaging over 10,000 rides per week and about 115,000 miles total miles ridden. Spearheaded by Boston’s bike czar Nicole Freedman, the city is working towards becoming more bike-friendly, including clearing 71 parking spots earlier this month to make way for a bike lane on Mass Ave.
While feelings may be mixed about biking in Boston (read my thoughts here), the shining success of Hubway in just four short months since its launch cannot be ignored. Even the Bruins have gotten on board, with players riding to and from practice.
As the cold, dark days of winter draw in on us, Hubway must wrap-up its first season. By Thursday, December 1, all stations will be shutdown for the winter. We’re sad to see it go, but once the cold ground begins to thaw in March 2012, Hubway stations will reappear in their usual locations, as well as additional stations in Cambridge, Somerville and Brookline.
Here’s a look back at Hubway’s first season in photos, from its initial launch to Hub on Wheels to various beautiful shots of Hubway riders, young, old and furry, around town. Check out the photos, and share your Hubway experiences in the comments section. Until next season, happy riding, Boston!
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