Public can weigh in on proposed Philly Bike Share locations

Officials have released a map of proposed locations for Philadelphia's upcoming bike-sharing program, and the public can weigh in on where the bicycles should be docked.

The program is slated to launch in the spring with 60 stations. An interactive map of about 100 possible locations is now up at phillybikeshare.com, and shows potential stations concentrated in and around Center City.

Possible stations on the map are located as far north as Norris Street, as far west as 44th Street and as far south as Morris Street.

People can click on each location and answer questions that include "Is this a good spot for a bike share station?" and "How comfortable would you feel using this station at night?"

Comments will be accepted through Oct. 20.

The bike share website says the potential sites were identified based on population density, bike lanes, available space, and employment, shopping, cultural and recreational destinations. The city also met with groups like SEPTA, universities and community groups; made site visits; and considered suggestions for stations that have been made over the past year.

The stations are to be 6.5 feet wide and between 45 and 75 feet long. Most are expected to be about 60 feet long and hold roughly 20 bicycles.

The sites must be on a hard surface and, if on a sidewalk, at least 13 feet wide so there's also room for pedestrians. Kiosks at the stations will be solar-powered, so the sites should receive six hours of sunlight per day.

The city is also planning to place temporary art at proposed station sites. The Mural Arts Program-designed works will include a number that people can send text messages with comments to.

Additionally, the public will be able to comment on proposed stations at community meetings later this fall, the site says.