Vancouver bike share program seeking new supplier

The City of Vancouveris seeking a new companyto install and operate itsbeleagueredbike share program.

"We will see how this competitionturns out," said councilorGeoffMeggs."The City of Vancouverhas been trying to find that sweet spot where people can make back a return and thereisn'ta subsidy fromtaxpayers."

City council approved the bike share program in July 2013.It wasinitiallyexpectedto launch by early 2014, butissues with its bicycle supplier,Bixi, and the company that was contracted to run the program,AltaBike Share, have delayed the program.

In early 2014it was announced that the company that ownsBixiowed$50 million to various creditors, including the City of Montreal, and the company washeaded for bankruptcy.

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Later that year,AltaBike Share wasbought out by New York-based company Motivate.

As part of its agreement with the city,AltaBike Sharewas meant to secure sponsorshipand develop a helmet supply system. The city saidthose conditions have not been met.

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The city also saidno money has been given to either company.

The search for a new operatorfor the program will include finding better technologyandpotentiallyGPS tracking on the bikes.

Vancouver's bike share plancalls for an initial $6 million investment to set up the program, andan additional $500,000 every year to expand the program with along-term goal of 125 docking stations for 1,500 bikes throughout the city.

The city did not specify when it would decide which company will receive the winning bid.