City Of Seven Hills Orders 400 Electric Bikes: Mayor Elorza

PROVIDENCE, RI—Some 400 electric bikes are coming to Providence in time for summer, Mayor Jorge Elorza's office said Thursday. JUMP Bikes will be the first electric bike share operation in New England. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, the City and Social Bicycles, of New York City, which owns JUMP Bikes, are partners.

“A bike share program positions Providence to be a more sustainable, healthier, and fun city for years to come,” said Mayor Jorge Elorza. “Similar programs across the nation have had transformative effects on communities. We are thrilled to be among the first cities in the region to offer these bikes that will allow residents and visitors to explore the capital city in a unique and exciting way.”

Riders still have to pedal these electric bikes, but the feature makes it easier to coast up hills and tackle distances. The pedal also can kick the speeds up to 20 mph.

Details are to follow. Prior to the summer 2018 launch, there will be an extensive community input period, the City said.