NEW ORLEANS (press release) – Hold onto your handlebars, Big Easy! New Orleans’ beloved Blue Bikes just shifted gears into overdrive, reaching a monumental 300,000 rides for 2023. This pedal-powered milestone wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of our community of riders, proving that New Orleans is serious about two-wheeled fun and sustainable transportation.
“I am immensely proud of the success of our homegrown bikeshare system and the achievement of this new milestone,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “Blue Bikes has been a vital transportation alternative and is a key component in our strategy to lower our greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, as well as in our efforts to connect people to opportunity. My administration will continue to make the investments necessary to expand modes of transportation for all residents, including making walking and bicycling around the city safer and more accessible.”
But the journey to 300,000 wasn’t just about turning a crank. Extensive improvements to New Orleans’ Complete Streets infrastructure, championed by local advocacy groups such as the New Orleans Complete Streets Coalition and Bike Easy, have paved the way for safer, smoother bike riding experiences. “Expanding New Orleans’ low-stress bike network has changed the fabric of our city,” said Allene La Spina, Executive Director of Bike Easy. “It’s given riders the confidence to explore, and access the city on two wheels, and we’re thrilled to see that reflected in these impressive Blue Bikes ridership numbers. Building on this incredible momentum, we encourage the City of New Orleans to continue plans to build out over 75 miles of low-stress bike network.”
Blue Bikes isn’t resting on its laurels. The community-run bikeshare program is committed to expanding its reach, growing ridership, and continuing to support the development of complete street infrastructure for all. With the community’s momentum behind it, Blue Bikes is poised to pedal New Orleans into an even brighter future.
“Reaching 300,000 rides this year is a testament to the incredible spirit of New Orleans and the power of Community-Run Bikeshare,” said Geoff Coats, CEO of Blue Krewe, the local nonprofit that operates and manages Blue Bikes. “With locals taking over 70 percent of all trips in 2023 and 1 out of every 5 trips being taken by our Blue Bikes for All members, Blue Bikes is a proven transportation solution that is revolutionizing the way that residents of New Orleans move around town. Seeing families, workers, and visitors embrace this fun, affordable, and healthy way to explore our city is a clear message that New Orleanians are committed to building a more equitable and sustainable future, one pedal at a time.”
So, New Orleanians, keep pedaling! Every Blue Bike ride is a vote for a healthier, more vibrant city. Let’s keep the wheels turning and show the world what it means to truly revolutionize the future of electric transportation on two wheels.
