Already this year,
106,314 passengers boarded a
Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) bus with their bike. This is an increase
of 55 percent over last year from January to September! By the end of the year
if the increase continues at this level, it is expected the year total could be
as high as 140,000.
As a way to thank our customers, any
rider who places his/her bike on an MCTS bike rack, will not have to pay a bus
fare on Friday, October 5,
2012.
Lloyd Grant, Jr., MCTS Managing
Director commented, "It is remarkable to see the steady growth in bike rack use
by riders over the last three years. It is a good investment by Milwaukee County
that has greatly expanded the benefits of public transit in our
community.”
All buses were equipped with bike
racks as of August 2009, after it was approved by the Milwaukee County Board.
Milwaukee County’s cost (local match) was roughly $20,250 while 95% of the total
cost ($384,750) was received through a federal grant.
"As a cosponsor of the resolution
seeking federal funding for bike racks, I'm thrilled to see our investment is
paying off," said Chairwoman Dimitrijevic. "Attracting more riders and helping
make more intermodal connections are wins for improved traffic patterns and our
local environment."
“I’d like to thank the Milwaukee
County bike community for using the Milwaukee County Transit System, for being a
great partner and for serving as an example as we look to grow Transit with
like-minded groups,” said Supervisor Michael Mayo, Sr., chair of the Milwaukee
County Board Transportation, Public Works and Transit Committee. “Bike racks not
only help improve the environment, they also attract more riders to MCTS, making
them a win-win for the Transit System and the residents of Milwaukee
County.”
Comparatively, each month, there has
been an increased use over the previous year since the program began.
The higher number of Bikes on Buses
this year is not only positive news for MCTS, but it’s great for the community.
People are biking as part of their transportation plan, which indicates that
many in our area are using habits that promote living a healthy, sustainable
lifestyle. Bike racks make it even easier for MCTS passengers to leave their car
at home for their workday commute, head out to explore Milwaukee County Parks
and bike trails, or enjoy a bike ride after work.