City of Colorado Springs, PikeRide Partner to Enhance Access and Connectivity in Old Colorado City

Parking Enterprise Repurposes Car Parking Space to Boost Connectivity

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. December 13, 2024 – The City of Colorado Springs and PikeRide have partnered to improve access to local businesses, services, and community resources in Old Colorado City by repurposing two parking spaces around a large tree in the 26th parking lot in Old Colorado City into a new ebike station.

Recognizing an opportunity to enhance connectivity while saving a beloved tree, the City designated space for the new PikeRide station that accommodates eight bikes, PikeRides or personal bikes. The location encourages increased access to businesses and resources within OCC and beyond, and provides OCC residents and visitors with a reliable, eco-friendly transportation option.

“When we considered removing the tree to save two parking spaces or saving the tree but losing two parking spaces, we thought this might be a better option,” said City of Colorado Springs Public Works Director Richard Mulledy, who currently oversees the City’s Parking Enterprise. “Saving the tree while repurposing those two parking spots into a PikeRide station creates a win-win for all involved.”

For PikeRide, the addition of this station marks a significant milestone: the 11th ebike share station in Old Colorado City. As a nonprofit dedicated to providing affordable, sustainable transportation options through electric bikes, PikeRide plays a vital role in fostering accessibility and connectivity. Through initiatives like the new OCC hub, they aim to empower individuals of all backgrounds and income levels to explore their community, connect with local businesses, and enjoy all that Old Colorado City has to offer.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the City of Colorado Springs on this project that embodies the spirit of innovation and sustainability,” said Tara McCarthy, Executive Director of PikeRide. “This new station not only enhances access to Old Colorado City’s vibrant businesses and community spaces but also reflects our commitment to creating a healthier and more connected city for everyone.”

About PikeRide

PikeRide is Colorado Springs’ local, nonprofit electric bike share providing affordable, sustainable transportation options to our community and offering a critical mobility solution to residents and visitors alike. We have installed over 90 ebike share stations, 440 public bike racks, and provide equitable transportation programs through PikeRide for All initiatives. For more information, please visit PikeRide.org.

About Parking Enterprise

The City of Colorado Springs Parking System Enterprise provides public parking spaces as a key element in maintaining the economic vitality of downtown and surrounding activity centers. Public parking is an economic development tool used to attract private investment into the community and manage urban growth.

Parking Enterprise operates solely on fees collected from users. No taxpayer support is utilized. All proceeds from parking operations are reinvested back into the community in the form of increased parking system capacity and improved mobility options. Funding of pedestrian projects is prioritized to improve the health, safety, and welfare of the community.