CapMetro has announced a new partnership with PBSC Urban Solutions, Inc. to revamp and expand MetroBike, Austin’s bike-sharing program. This collaboration is part of a $20.6 million plan between CapMetro and the City of Austin to enhance the bikeshare system.
The initiative utilizes an $11.3 million Transportation Alternative Set-Aside (TASA) grant awarded to the City of Austin in October 2023.
“This is a key piece of the puzzle we need to start building one of the country’s best bikeshare systems,” stated Dottie Watkins, President & CEO at CapMetro. “This investment in our bike share program will bring better flexibility and access for riders to connect to the larger web of mobility in Austin transit network.”
Under this contract, CapMetro plans to replace and expand 80 MetroBike stations, 1,000 docks, and 800 bicycles primarily located in downtown Austin, effectively tripling the size of the current system.
The enhancement plan also includes transitioning all bicycles to electric-assist models (“e-bikes”). Presently, only 43% of MetroBike’s fleet consists of e-bikes.
Since its inception in December 2013, MetroBike has grown popular among residents and visitors for short- and medium-length trips. Usage surged from less than 5,000 monthly trips before 2019 to nearly 28,000 by April 2023 due to the inclusion of e-bikes.
A formalized partnership between the City of Austin and CapMetro was established through an interlocal agreement (ILA) in 2020. The City will own all physical assets while CapMetro will manage operations and maintenance.
The rollout of new bikes and stations is expected by summer 2024.
