There’s no way to hide our excitement for the booming bike share programs in Europe. We’re encouraged by their widespread implementation. We’ve enjoyed watching the programs develop and provide real solutions that impact people, the environment and the overall ecology of a city.

Over the weekend the New York Times published an article that captures the growing popularity of Europe’s Bike Sharing Programs. We particularly liked their opening, “In increasingly green-conscious Europe, there are said to be only two kinds of mayors: those who have a bicycle-sharing program and those who want one.” They also laid out why these programs work. “For mayors looking to ease congestion and prove their environmental bona fides, bike-sharing has provided a simple solution: for the price of a bus, they invest in a fleet of bicycles, avoiding years of construction and approvals required for a subway. For riders, joining means cut-rate transportation and a chance to contribute to the planet’s well-being.” We can only hope that this type of forward thinking and practicality helps grow similar programs here in the United States. Click Read More for additional information.

Also, check out another awesome Bike Safety Video from the folks behind Watch for the Dancing Bear! Remember, you can’t see what you’re not looking for. [via josh spear]

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