Atlanta has been planning a bike share program for more than two years, but Smyrna recently became the first metro Atlanta city to launch one.
The city currently has four bikes available for rent stationed in three places: Smyrna Public Library on the Village Green, Taylor-Brawner Park on Atlanta Road along the multi-use trail, and near Jonquil Park along Spring Road.
The first four hours of rental are free. After that, there is a $5 an hour charge, up to $40 per ride.
The idea for the program was introduced by Council Representative Teri Anulewicz, who was inspired to try it after using the bike share program in Austin, Texas in late 2014. An instructional video lets customers know how to use the system.
There are two ways to join. Go to the website www.zagster.com/smyrnaga or download an app for iPhone and Android from iTunes or Google Play. The city also answers frequently asked questions about the program on its website http://zagster.com/smyrnaga/.
The program cost the city $32,960. To prevent stealing, the bicycles will have Kryptonite-locking hardware and integrated lock holster.
Meanwhile, the city of Atlanta plans to launch its bike share program with about 500 bicycles next year, according to Tim Keane, the head of planning for the city of Atlanta. CycleHop has been chosen as the vendor to operate the program. Keane said that the city is evaluating the technology that would be used for renting the bicycles and finalizing the location of stations.
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