Promoting physical activity by biking: San Antonio bike-share program

Introduction: The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (Metro Health) is addressing the obesity epidemic through a comprehensive set of initiatives to increase physical activity in Bexar County. The Office of Environmental Policy (OEP) is engaged in bike kiosk installation, providing access to bikes. Approval of the Bike Master Plan 2011 and Implementation Strategy by the City Council in September 2011 would encourage bikers.Method: OEP worked with many partners to install bike kiosks in 21 locations in the downtown area with software, which uses minimal energy. Data on bike trips, duration, and distance traveled are available from the kiosks. Maps for biking routes are available at the kiosks and online. Bikes are adjustable for persons from 5'2” to 6'4” and are equipped with GPS units. Riders can track calories burned, miles ridden, and carbon offset of vehicular traffic. Results: The program, launched in March 2011, has about 200 bikes, and has reported 941 annual memberships and 4336 24-hour memberships as on 12/31/2011. The total bike checkouts so far is 24,247 with average 83 trips daily covering 4 miles and 47 minutes per trip on average. This program, along with other strategies such as Siclovia 2011, new bike lanes, signage and incentives (helmets and lights), have increased bicycling in the city. The designated bike lanes have increased dramatically. Discussion: Bike Share provides active and alternate transportation choices to residents and visitors of San Antonio's downtown. Immediate advantages include a reduction in number of cars on our streets (traffic congestion and parking) and improved air quality. Bike lanes and Complete Streets policy implementation encourage biking in San Antonio and promote active living and increase Physical activity.