City Of Philadelphia Receives $1.5m For Bikeshare Expansion

Philadelphia - The City of Philadelphia received a one-year, $1.5 million grant from the William Penn Foundation to expand Indego, the City's bike sharing program, by a third in 2016. The grant will support installation of 24 new stations, adding to the current system of 72 stations, in neighborhoods around the city. Locations for the new stations will be selected with emphasis on increasing the accessibility of City parks and waterfronts, and with the input of residents.


"I am proud that Indego has been such a huge success during just four months of operation," said Mayor Michael A. Nutter. "With the popularity of the system increasing during such a short period of time, it's fortuitous that the William Penn Foundation has stepped up with generous support so that we can expand Indego's network to reach even more residents and visitors. Philadelphia is a very bike-friendly city and there's no better way to get around for a reasonable price than on an Indego bike."


Indego is an initiative of the City of Philadelphia and is sponsored by Independence Blue Cross. Since launching in late April 2015, the program has facilitated more than 250,000 trips between 72 stations. Riders can sign up for a $15 pass that provides an unlimited number of one hour bike trips for a 30 day period. One-time passes and memberships can also be purchased, all with cash or credit card.


William Penn Foundation's grant focuses on making some of the city's most valuable natural and recreational assets - rivers and public parks - easier to enjoy and visit. By providing funds specifically for station expansion in underserved communities, this grant enables the City to build upon its vision for Indego as a bike share system accessible to Philadelphians of all income levels.


"Indego is a valuable new amenity in Philadelphia, and its immediate popularity among residents and visitors speaks to the demand for active transportation options in the city," said Andrew Johnson, program director for Watershed Protection at the William Penn Foundation. "And, whether riders are commuting or recreating, Indego also provides new opportunities to access the City's beautiful waterways and adjacent parks via Philadelphia's substantial and growing network of trails."


The William Penn Foundation, founded in 1945 by Otto and Phoebe Haas, is dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Greater Philadelphia region through efforts that increase educational opportunities for children from low-income families, ensure a sustainable environment, foster creativity that enhances civic life, and advance philanthropy in the Philadelphia region. With assets of more than $2 billion, the Foundation distributes approximately $90 million in grants annually.