The first generation of bike share programs were typically a private public partnership that were subsidized by public entities. These programs were costly due to expensive docking stations, where the bicycles were returned to and parked at the end of each trip. Technological advancement and reduced infrastructure costs have enabled “dockless” bike share programs. The new model, where private companies no longer must rely on public investment, distributes bikes around a city or campus to be rented per trip via smartphone apps instead of dispensing them through docking stations.
 
One such company, Spin, is intending to bring their business to Flagstaff. They have been working with City staff to identify a formal process that works to establish a pilot program for this type of use in our community. An initial hurdle is the use of the City’s rights-of-way (ROW), which has been determined not consistent with any existing City permit. Staff recommend that initially the City enter into an exclusive license agreement for a six-month pilot program where-in Spin would responsible for all facets of the program. Specific requirements of the agreement are related to liability, bicycle standards, placement / relocation of bicycles, ADA access to public ROW, and data collection and sharing, among other things. During this time staff will solicit input from Flagstaff residents and businesses to determine if this model is beneficial for Flagstaff.
 
After the pilot period, the City could continue to license vendors or could decide to create a formal permit process through code amendments as determined most beneficial.
 

Council Goals:
Take meaningful climate change action   
Economic development
Transportation
Parking Management