Mayor Lovely Warren announced on Friday that the City has selected Zagster to be the operator of the Rochester Public Bikeshare System, which is expected to implemented by next spring.

“A Public Bikeshare System will encourage more visitors and residents to choose bicycles over vehicles as a transportation option, which leads to cleaner air, healthier bodies and better access to our city’s tourist destinations, job centers and commercial districts,” Mayor Warren said. “This latest addition to our growing inventory of bicycle infrastructure will greatly enhance Rochester’s reputation as a bicycle friendly city, which will help us create more jobs, safer more vibrant neighborhoods and better educational opportunities.”

Legislation to approve the agreement with Zagster is scheduled to be considered by the City Council at its regular October meeting.

Zagster was one of four firms to respond to the City’s request for proposals seeking a Bikeshare operator.

The Bikeshare System will enable residents and visitors to access shared bicycles from a station located in the public right-of-way or on public or publicly accessible private property, and return the bicycles to another station as an extension of the public transportation system.

Bikeshare programs are quickly becoming recognized as an expected mobility option in American cities, complementing other transportation services and resulting in reduced car usage, increased rates of transit use, lower parking demand, increased retail sales for small businesses and improved public health.

The Public Bikeshare System will also reduce unnecessary car traffic in congested areas, draw more visitors and help visitors travel between attractions.

Zagster would develop, install, own, operate and maintain the Public Bikeshare System. The system will accommodate various membership options, ranging from hourly to annual, and incorporate multiple payment options.

Bicycles will be available to the public 24 hours per day, seven days per week, on a seasonal basis (April through November). The system will be self-sustaining primarily through sponsorships and advertising.

Implementation of the full system is set to take place in the spring of 2017.