Modern analysis of bike sharing feasibility

The addition of a bicycle sharing program into an urbanized environment can have many societal benefits. These benefits include increased personal and communal health as well as a decrease of harmful effects on the surrounding environment. Greenhouse gas emissions and gasoline consumption will be reduced because of fewer cars on the roadways. This, coupled with an increase in bicycle usage will generate a more communal sense of well-being and cleanliness. However, the implementation of such a program does not come free of charge. In this paper, the various costs associated for a successful system are analyzed in detail such as the cost to the individual and the cost to the city or university. The individual has the potential to save money when compared to other forms of available transportation. The safety of the individual users is addressed along with solutions of how to ensure their wellbeing by reducing the interaction between vehicles and cyclists. Finally, various programs already in place as well as past programs that have failed are analyzed. The most modern programs have embraced technology to not only increase security, but also create a more accessible system for riders who want to get around short distances with less cost, live healthier lifestyles, and make an impact on green transportation. Recommendations are made with regard to the execution of programs in different settings. Various cities and universities will have to overcome various obstacles such as existing infrastructure to meet the needs of the users and to maintain successful operation. Specifically, the University of Florida is an ideal place to implement a bicycle sharing program. The existing infrastructure offers a model environment to ensure the safety of the users as well as to sustain a lasting program. Given the conditions at the University of Florida, a bicycle sharing program will be a particularly beneficial investment.