In 2013, the City of Austin launched its bike share program, Austin B-cycle, with a $1.5 million federal grant matched with $500,000 in private donations. Since its launch, the program has set national records for bike share systems, and has been financially self-sufficient in its operations. But the program faces ongoing challenges as it strives to maintain an efficient, equitable system in a rapidly evolving market. As a Council member, will you support additional funding mechanisms, from the City of Austin or other local, state or federal sources, to grow Austin’s B-cycle system?

Natasha Harper-Madison

City Council, District 1

What I can commit to is looking comprehensively and holistically at fostering alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles, the current dominant mode of transportation in Austin, and one that is unsustainable. Currently, B-Cycle is an important part of that and certainly seems to be a part of it for the future. Recent developments in Austin and elsewhere with dockless bikes and scooters have both promise and substantial problems. We clearly need to be thinking about docked and dockless transportation solutions, and how they interact with pedestrians and autos. I fully expect B-Cycle to be part of our future, but I will be considering ALL options to creating a healthier,  less-polluting, and less-congested future.