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VALPARAISO — Later this month residents who don't own bicycles will be able to take a bicycle ride around the city.

The city, initially through its Redevelopment Commission, is sponsoring a bicycle sharing program, Valpo Velocity, that will launch April 19.

Lauren Orchard, economic development coordinator for the RDC, said the city has partnered with Zagstra to provide and maintain the bicycles.

The city will lease 25 bicycles, including a handicapped-accessible tricycle, that will be divided among eight stations, including three on the Valparaiso University campus and five within the city, Orchard said. The city will lease the bicycles from Zagstra for $1,800 each per year. The cost includes maintenance by a local bike shop, the bike stations and the software to operate the program.

Parks Director John Seibert said his department will take over operation of the bike share after the first year. He said VU is sponsoring their own bikes and the city has picked up sponsors to help cover the costs.

The city's stations will be located at Central Park Plaza, the Valparaiso branch of the Porter County Library, the corner of Indiana and Michigan avenues, Housing Opportunities and Ogden Garden.