Bike share program rolls out in North Charleston

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – A new bike share program in North Charleston is expanding ways to get around in Park Circle.

“We’re always trying to find new ways for people to explore our city. Obviously here at Park Circle with the new playground, we’re getting a lot more activity right here in this area so, being able to provide just a different outlet for folks. We all know how bad the traffic can be in the Charleston area at times. But you come here, park your car, hop on a bike, and you’re free to go anywhere,” said TJ Rostin, the Recreation Director for the City of North Charleston.

The city and the company Skoods LLC have teamed up for the bike share program which rolled out a few months ago.

The rental bikes are available 24-7 at four different stations in and around Park Circle.

“We’re starting to see a lot of the activity pick up as we get into some cooler temperatures and in the evening times folks like to park here, ride to the nearest shops and restaurants, and enjoy themselves,” Rostin said.

The bikes are stationed at the J.V. Morris Tennis Center, the North Charleston Sports Complex, Quarterman Park, and the Park Circle Playground.

Rostin said they were piloting in Park Circle before bringing the bikes to other spots in the city.

“As we see the activity that’s being utilized with the bikes, we’re hoping to grow it so that we can be very connected throughout the entire city,” Rostin told News 2.

Katie Zimmerman, the Executive Director of the nonprofit Charleston Moves, pointed out that it would be beneficial to have stations in locations where people can get to and from bus stops, grocery stores, and work.

“The existing stations in North Charleton, you know it’s the four in the Park Circle area. They’re sited right near recreational amenities and that’s fantastic. I think that’s a great way to sort of start to gauge interest from the community, but it’s really important to expand that bike share system,” said Zimmerman.

As for the rental process, all you have to do is download an app and follow the directions posted at the stations.

“Not only can they grab one of the bikes at one of the locations, they can drop it off at one of the other locations so it doesn’t have to be the same spot,” Rostin explained.

According to officials, the four stations are all within a mile or so of each other.