Beginning September 18th City Bikes, the county’s first bike-share program, will offer 10 free bike share beach cruisers to local citizens who wish to get out and cruise the new and improved bike ways on the city streets.
City of Ranson City Manager Andrew Blake is proud of this new project: “Ranson has made significant road and safety improvements to allow safe cycling. We have also installed multiple racks through town around all the businesses. Charles Town down has done the same. We invite the community to explore the streets, get active, and do local shopping on two wheels”.
With a generous contribution from City Bank as well as partnership with River Riders the program will launch with 10 restored beach cruisers which are perfect for the city streets. “City Bank has always been a huge supporter of the community and activities to enhance the lifestyle as well as the green space and environment. There is nothing better for our environment than reducing automobile traffic and getting people cycling.” said City Bank community lead Melissa Knott.
Two Rivers Treads, a local business in Ranson, and owner Dr. Mark Cucuzzella have been instrumental in connecting all of the partners to launch the program. Mark adds: “The heart of my day job and the store is to get people outside and moving and living healthier lives. The built environment is so critical to this. We moved our business to Ranson as I saw the vision of a walkable and bike friendly community. We get people out walking and running on a daily basis so now it is time to get people on the bikes!”
To celebrate the launch, Two Rivers Treads, the City of Ranson, The Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, and City Bank is holding a City Bike Kickoff with refreshments and a bike ride for all ages on Wednesday September 18 5 pm at Two Rivers Treads 400 S. Mildred St. (directly across from Ranson City Hall). Come with your own bike or borrow one of the 10 available.
Bikes will be kept locked at Two Rivers Treads and to borrow a bike simply come to the store during open hours and sign one out. There is no charge but the store will keep some form of identification until the bike is returned. The store will loan a helmet and a lock also if you do not have your own.