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The Asbury Park City Council unanimously voted Wednesday to bring bike sharing to the city and has its eyes on a car sharing program next, according to Mayor John Moor.

The vote awarded operation rights to Zagster of Cambridge, Mass. City Manager Michael Capabianco said two companies vied to run the local program but Zagster fulfilled all the requirements set by the city.

Due to launch Memorial Day weekend, there will be four stations throughout the city, with locations at Springwood Avenue Park, the Transportation Center, in the downtown and at waterfront.

Transportation Manager Michael Manzella said the launch will feature 10 bicycles at each locations, with sponsorship opportunities available to increase the number of stations and bicycles.

Zagster’s vetting of the community shows a potential for 10 stations with a total of 110 bicycles, Manzella said.

“I’m guessing and hoping that it’s going to be a positive program,” Manzella said. “So, we’re going to be spreading very quickly and people are going to want to see more stations; it all depends of sponsorship. The more sponsors we can get on board, we may be able to start with a larger system at launch.”

On its website, Zagster said it provides the following:

• Feasibility analysis, budgeting and station siting— our team helps to design the perfect bike share for your community.

• Featuring lightweight stations and smart bikes that are fun to ride, our hardware is proven & easy to use by tens of thousands of riders.

• Riders unlock bikes using our free mobile app. Robust data collection gives you deep insight into usage so you know what’s working.

• 24/7 rider support, comprehensive promotion and regular maintenance by our national mechanic team keeps systems rolling.

A Zagster poll of its 3,500 users nation wide, released Thursday, found that bike sharing not only provides cost-effective convenient access to a bike but fosters a greater sense of connectivity and community.

“This study shows compelling evidence of the value, health benefits and utility of bike sharing, not just for big cities, but for communities of all shapes and sizes,” CEO Timothy Ericson said in a written statement. “We’re thrilled to see the overwhelmingly positive impact that Zagster is having for people across the country.”

Below are the poll results:

• 51% say Zagster is their only access to a bike
• 64% say Zagster improved their quality of life
• 62% feel more connected to their community because of bike sharing
• 92% say Zagster was a good investment in their community

[Photos courtesy of Zagster]

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The Asbury Park Sun is affiliated with the triCityNews newspaper.

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