Projects
"Bike Rio" System
Project Overview
Since 2011, the "Bike Rio" project has installed an integrated system of over 60 bicycle stations in 14 major neighborhoods (over 600 bicycles) for use in Rio de Janeiro. This project complements the City's effort to provide bicycle lanes and alternative transportation options-the municipal government is in the process of doubling the cycle path system to over 300 km2. With the bank Itaú as a central sponsor and a concession to sustainable transportation company Serttel to create the solar-powered system, the City aims to use this project to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, to decrease traffic and related air pollution, and to improve health and recreation in the City. A monthly subscription costs R$ 10 for an unlimited number of one-hour passes, which can be activated by phone call, text, or cell phone app; users can also opt for R$ 5 one-time one-hour passes.
Contact Information
City of Rio de Janeiro call center: Phone: +55 (21) 4063-3999 Website: http://www.mobilicidade.com.br/bikerio.asp
Environmental, Social, and Economic Benefits
This project is meant to address environmental, social, and health goals of the City.
| As an alternative to high-capacity transport and to personal vehicles, this solar-powered bike system is intended to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and particulate matter in terms of miles traveled. |
| The location of bicycle stations is meant to improve mobility by reaching low-income users as well as middle and upper class ones. Stations have been sited at the entrance to major favelas, and the system is expanding outwards toward the West Zone. A subscription to the bike service is also affordable when compared to the bus system for short- to medium-distance trips. |
| These bicycles should promote recreation and more active commuting, as well as reducing asthma-inducing particulates in the air. |
