Definitely need a good amount of support for infrastructure. Otherwise, as everyone else seems to agree, it will all just fall apart. Have you thought of a library system where people can rent out bikes so as they some sort of liability for the treatment of the bicycles, as well as the bikes returning and what not? I also agree that community involvement is key, so someone/a group of people would have to be in charge of these "free" bikes and there needs to be a storage facility as well as a place where maintenance can happen. Always keep in mind of how/where things will be 10 years down the road. Sustainability is key! Good luck! I think whatever it is could be a really great project for your community. I think that right now it's just missing a couple of key steps.

On Thu, Apr 9, 2015 at 11:38 AM, Beth Barnes <islow4bikes@gmail.com> wrote:
Could you weigh in, please. We have a small, remote rural town with no real bike/Ped infrastructure...yet. A group wants to introduce about 100 used bikes for people to use for free in an already ailing, small downtown. Free bikes? What will that do to local, struggling bike businesses? Bikes but no supporting infrastructure? Thank you for your thoughts. Makes little sense to me.
Beth




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Laura Biren
Outreach Intern at BF Community Bike Project
bfbike.org
617 939 4330