Upstate Forever will transfer bike-share operations to the City of Greenville in late 2019

July 16, 2019
Local conservation group Upstate Forever, who has operated Greenville B-cycle since March 2013, will give up the reins as program operator later this year. The City of Greenville has committed to taking over the local bike-share program.

“We are proud that we have been able to offer the community a bike-sharing option for more than six years with nearly 24,000 rides taken and 11,000+ unique users,” said Upstate Forever Executive Director Andrea Cooper. “However, in light of our strategic plan and current direction, and as a matter of natural succession, it is time for us to give up the reins as Greenville’s ‘bike-share operator.’ As an organization with a primary mission of land and water protection, it is critical that we focus our resources and time on goals and initiatives most directly aimed at accomplishing that mission. We are pleased that the City has agreed to assume program operations and look forward to B-cycle’s continued success.”

Launched in March 2013 as a partnership of Upstate Forever and Greenville Health System (now Prisma Health-Upstate), the program has grown to ten stations and 50 bikes and offers residents and visitors convenient access to active transportation around town.

“Prisma Health-Upstate has been pleased to support Greenville B-cycle since the program’s launch,” said Robin Stelling, community relations manager at Prisma Health-Upstate (formerly Greenville Health System). “We’re thrilled to work with partners to create opportunities that make our communities healthier.”

“We recognize the value of Greenville B-cycle in offering an active way for residents and visitors to explore the city,” said Interim City Manager Nancy Whitworth. “As we look toward the future, the City will continue efforts to expand its bicycle friendly community initiative and connect people to more places where they live, work and play.”

According to Greenville B-cycle staff, more than half of all rides taken using Greenville B-cycle have been made by Greenville County residents. Ridership has steadily risen as the program has expanded from its size of six stations at launch, with ridership peaking during the last several years.

Greenville B-cycle offers adult-sized bicycles that members can check out and return at ten conveniently located stations throughout the city. Day memberships are $5 and can be purchased at kiosks or online. Annual memberships are $60 and can be purchased online only at GreenvilleBcycle.com.