Mayor Kasim Reed has signed the contract with CycleHop and its partners Social Bicycles, Center Forward and Iconologic to roll out the city’s bike share program. The program will launch with 500 bicycles and 50 rental stations throughout the city later this year.

“Over the past three years we have achieved several major milestones for citizens to enjoy bicycle riding along city streets, paths and trails,” said Mayor Reed. “With the signing of the contract today, we’re able to accomplish another major step forward to become a top U.S. city for bicycling.”

Atlanta’s bike share system will use the latest ‘Smart Bike’ system known as Social Bicycles (SoBi), which are equipped with an integrated GPS-enabled locking mechanism that gives riders the flexibility to return a bike at a hub location, or any public bike rack.

Users will be able to find and rent bikes through the Web, a mobile application, or using the interface on the bike. “Our bike share program will be a convenient transportation option that will connect with other modes of transportation,” said Deputy Commissioner, Terri Lee, Department of Planning and Community Development.

The bike share program is a private-public partnership, and the business model relies on corporate sponsorship. Business and property owners may participate and support the program through sponsorship, adopt-a-station, and the purchase of memberships.

“Over the next few months we will be working with our partners to identify potential bike rental station locations in the city’s core,” said Office of Planning Director, Charletta Wilson Jacks. “Our bike share program is yet another transportation option we can offer to residents and visitors who wish to get around the city with more safe, affordable, and convenient options.”

The public is invited to participate in the program by purchasing a membership and by riding once the system is launched. To learn more about the program, stay up to date on progress, or suggest locations for bike stations, visit atlantabicycleshare.com.