Chandler Thomas
Soc 202 TR 12:30pm
Blog #10
11/02/2009
3:13pm
Paris has a new bicycle rental system that enables families and individuals to travel on bikes versus vehicles. This ideal idea implements a low expense and a healthy low-carbon alternative to driving cars. The reality to this whole situation is that despite what a good idea it is, a bike sturdy enough to use like this costs upwards of $3500. The program behind this is now beginning to hurt due to the fact that their nice expensive bikes are being stolen and joy-ridden by youth of lower classes. It didn't take very long before it was realized that it was the trendy, wealthier, urban middle class that would be able to use these bikes; causing jealousy with people who could not. There has been an outcry by these people saying its unfair, and how difficult it is for them to get to Paris still. This outcry is what caused 80% of the initial bikes marketed to have been repaired or replaced already. Vandalism has become very prevalent with these bikes.
This seems kind of unfortunate considering its the city trying to make it a better and easier place. It seems like it would be really nice to have that option for you and your family when it comes to getting around Paris. Hopefully, the outcry will settle down and they will be able to continue implementing the rental program like they would like.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/31/world/europe/31bikes.html?_r=1&em
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