Memphis could be next city to roll out a bike sharing program

Doug Carpenter & Associates is heading up Explore Bike Share, a committee designed to investigate the feasibility of an on-demand bike rental program. Some of Doug Carpenter’s key concerns are finding out where the rental stations should be placed, how many bikes fit Memphis’ need, and how the project could be funded.

“Many Memphians are in need of better transit options—but are seeing fewer of them. A network of safe, affordable, and accessible bicycles may be able to fill some of these gaps, unlocking new opportunities in neighborhoods across the city,” the group writes on the Explore Bike Share website.

This isn’t the first time bike share discussions have surfaced. In 2013, the City of Memphis commissioned Alta Planning + Design to do a bike sharing feasibility study. According to the findings, the group recommended 63 total stations with 580 bikes across areas with tourist attractions, higher density housing and employment centers, neighborhood and commercial centers, hotels, key transit stops, and college and hospital campuses. A bike sharing program is in its best interest when it is positioned to serve both tourists and citizens, the consulting firm added.

The three-part implementation would roll out first in the Central Business District and Medical District, Midtown and University Districts and then North and South Memphis. This could cost between $4.9 million and $6 million. The most likely funding model is made up of public funding and corporate sponsorship.

Explore Bike Share is depending on public input. Find out more about the initiative and take a survey here.

The group is hosting a series of two-hour, public sessions to source ideas from the community. The next session is June 9 at 6:00 p.m. at Orange Mound Community Center.

Following meetings will be held on:
June 10, 5:30 p.m.: Bridges (477 N 5th)

June 18, 6:00 p.m.: National Civil Rights Museum (450 Mulberry) 

June 19, 6:00 p.m.: Binghampton Development Corporation (280 Tillman)

June 23, 6:00 p.m.: Caritas Village (2509 Harvard)

June 29, 6:00 p.m.: Christian Brothers University in the Montesi Conference Room (650 East Parkway)

July 1, 11:30 a.m.: University of Memphis in the University Center’s Shelby Room (499 University) 

July 2, 6:00 p.m.: Saint Andrew A.M.E. Church (867 South Parkway)