Men on bikes, women on bikes, and kids on bikes. It’s a typical Saturday morning along Bayshore Boulevard in Tampa.



If city leaders get their way, this sight could become commonplace seven days a week.

The city of Tampa is looking to be more bicycle friendly, and that could happen with a new bike sharing program.

Residents and visitors would be able to rent bikes when they’re in the downtown area. It’s something a number of big cities such as New York offer.



“It’s good for tourism, too, if it’s near the hotels,” bike enthusiast Joey Bianco said.



Bike enthusiasts such as Bianco say bike riding is just a great way to enjoy the beautiful weather in Tampa.



“Just being outside, the exercise,” he said.

Other regular bike riders such as David Hohman think it’s a good idea, but they have their doubts.



“America’s used to driving cars; that’s the way it is," Hohman said. "You go over to Europe and the whole commuting system is just different."

Mayor Bob Buckhorn hopes bike racks will be full in the fall of 2013, because he believes a city with bikes is one that is more vibrant.



Yet, even some folks who ride their bikes all the time don't think it will work here.

“I think it’s a lifestyle thing," Hohman said. "Maybe personality. Some people are just more sedentary, and some people like to get out and enjoy the outdoors,” he said.

Mayor Buckhorn would like to see it start in the downtown area this time next year. It still has to be approved, and they still have to find a private group to run the program.



Tampa did something similar to this in 1997, but it never took off.

