Capital Bikeshare is increasingly popular
Capital Bikeshare is increasingly popular in Fairfax County, with the bike rental company setting an all-time monthly record of 6,560 trips in August, the Fairfax County Department of Transportation reports.
There were 5,770 trips in September, making it the highest September ridership ever and the third-highest month overall.
Since June, each month has set a new ridership record for that calendar month, with both June and August establishing all-time monthly highs.
Related story: Capital Bikeshare stations installed in Mason District/Annandale
One of the new stations is already exceeding expectations, FCDOT reports. Since a docking station was installed at Leesburg Pike and Jefferson Street in Bailey’s Crossroads in May, 857 trips have begun or ended at that location through the end of September.
The program was expanded this summer, with 27 Capital Bikeshare stations added across the county, including five in Bailey’s Crossroads, seven in Annandale, and four in Seven Corners.
There are now a total of 126 Capital Bikeshare stations in Fairfax County. An additional 45 e-bikes and 134 classic bikes were added to the county’s fleet.
Funding for the expansion was provided through congressionally directed spending from Sen. Mark Warner and Sen. Tim Kaine.
“Bikeshare helps fill in the gaps for those who choose to go car-free, eases the burden of walking to get to transit, saves the trouble of having to ask for a ride, is cheaper than a rideshare or taxi service, and provides joy for those who know what freedom riding a bike can bring,” said FCDOT Active Transportation Program Manager Zack DesJardins.
Riders can purchase single trips, day passes, or memberships and can find and unlock bikes using the Capital Bikeshare mobile app or station kiosks. Real-time information on station locations and bike and dock availability is also available through the app and website.
Through the Capital Bikeshare for All program, eligible residents can access significantly discounted annual memberships and other benefits.