Ride The Bus, Borrow A Bike

Tulsa Transit is unveiling a new alternative for commuters sick of high gas prices.  The city will now provide bikes, free of charge, to bus riders.  The News On 6's Chris Wright reports the program is being dubbed Rack and Roll.

The city says it is a cheap solution to the growing problems fueled by record gas prices.  Like much of the nation, the interest in, and demand for, public transportation is on the rise in Tulsa.

"Gas is costing so much now people are riding bikes and catching the bus.  So, I thank God for the bus system, we need the bus system," said Tulsan Mary Curry.

But, the city, dealing with effects of rising fuel costs on its own budget, says it may not have the funds to meet that demand.

"It's what we always do in the City of Tulsa.  How, without spending any additional money, can we do more?" said Tulsa Mayor Kathy Taylor.

So, officials are now thinking outside the bus.

As of Thursday, 10 bikes are now available to rent for free at the downtown bus station.  People interested in using them for the last leg of their commute can apply for the program, and will receive a Rack N Roll ID card.  You are free to do whatever you like with the bike, as long as you return it within 24 hours.

"We expect everyone to do the right thing and to share the bike, and we expect this to be a good program," said Tulsa Transit's Bill Cartwright.

City leaders didn't mind taking a spin on the new bikes, but what about Tulsa residents?

Even at $3.80 a gallon, officials admit that switching from four wheels to two is a drastic lifestyle change.  But, some are willing to give it a try.

"Uh, I sure will ride them. I'm not afraid of nothing," said Tulsan Mary Curry.

City officials believe Tulsa is the first city in the country to offer a program like Rack N Roll.

There are some penalties if you don't get the bike back within 24 hours.  You will be fined $25 dollars a day, and will be removed from the program.