A Howard County program to encourage bicycle sharing as a commuting and transportation alternative is underway in Howard County.

From a profile in the Baltimore Sun:

“There’s a strong recognition for meaningful transportation options,” said Eatough. “This is where it begins.”

Kittleman said the bike share program, which includes seven bike sharing locations financed through partnerships with organizations like Howard Hughes Corp., the Columbia Association and the Horizon Foundation, is a “hip” and “cool” way to encourage what he called a healthy, forward-thinking transportation model.

The county is in the process of finalizing agreements with partners, and will begin the bidding process for the pilot program in July, Kittleman said. After six years, the county will evaluate the program’s effectiveness.