Camden is now filled with hundreds of bright-yellow bikes, thanks to the new Camden Bike Share program.
The program is a collaboration between Cooper’s Ferry Partnership, the Rutgers Voorhees Transportation Center and Ofo, the world’s first and largest deckles bike share company. Funded by a $1.8 million grant from the William Penn Foundation, the Camden Bike Share program will run through September 2018.
“The Camden Bike Share will be an extremely affordable, convenient and fun way for residents and visitors to get around and see all the phenomenal progress taking place in the city,” says Camden Mayor Frank Moran. “This summer, we want to provide an easy way to explore our beautifully rehabilitated parks, new restaurants and bustling waterfront without the worry of parking.”
The bright-yellow bikes can be rented at $1 an hour using the Ofo mobile phone application, where you can pay with a debit or credit card. Ride vouchers can also be purchased at the Cooper’s Ferry Partnership office.
The service does not use parking docks – instead, customers find an available bike close to them on their phone, enter a code provided by the app to unlock the bike and push a lever to lock the bike at the end of their trip, leaving the bike behind for the next rider. Users can ride anywhere within the City of Camden limits, including along the Camden GreenWay and the Circuit Trails.
“This high-tech way to go low-tech is a great opportunity for residents to get out of their cars and onto a bike in order to traverse Camden’s trails and roadways,” says Freeholder Jeff Nash. “Whether it’s a daily commute to work or riding for recreation, this program provides a sustainable two-wheel option for residents.”
The bikes have GPS units, allowing customers and the Ofo operations team to track their location. The Ofo team is also positioned to fix improperly stationed bicycles, such as those tied to fire hydrants or blocking a sidewalk, in addition to collecting and redistributing them.
“In addition to creating jobs and boosting the local economy, the Camden Bike Share could ultimately contribute to easing traffic congestion, reducing carbon emissions and saving energy,” says Kris Kolluri, president and CEO of the Cooper’s Ferry Partnership.
Mayor Frank Moran, Freeholder Nash, Freeholder Moen, CFP Chair Susan Bass Levin, CFP Pres. & CEO Kris Kolluri, & Head of North America ofo bike share Charles Taylor launched Camden's bike share program today at Roosevelt Plaza Park next to City Hall. https://t.co/K7IgKtqipf pic.twitter.com/e6wI8V4DEp
— City of Camden Gov (@CityofCamdenGov) May 1, 2018
