Citi Bike Expands NYC Footprint Amid Calls for Cheaper Rides
The bike-share program adds hundreds of docks in seven new neighborhoods as city officials explore ways to reduce rider costs.
Citi Bike has expanded its service in New York City by approximately 11%, introducing 234 new stations across seven neighborhoods in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the expansion on Thursday, noting that it adds more than 3,700 docks in areas including Bay Ridge, Brownsville, East New York, and Kensington in Brooklyn; Norwood and Riverdale in the Bronx; and Forest Hills in Queens.
Installation of the new stations began in Bay Ridge last fall, where riders have since completed over 75,000 trips, according to City Hall.
This expansion is part of an initiative that was initially announced by former Mayor Eric Adams in December 2024. In addition to the new neighborhoods, Lyft, the operator of Citi Bike, plans to add hundreds of docks within existing service areas this fall. These will include locations in Midtown, Chelsea, Williamsburg, Greenpoint, and Gowanus.
However, the growth of the Citi Bike network coincides with increasing complaints about the cost of riding the electric bikes. DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn stated on October 8 that reducing costs for riders is a “very high priority.” Flynn highlighted that the bike-share system was established without direct public subsidies and indicated that the upcoming city contract would provide an opportunity to re-evaluate affordability.
The current agreement between the city and Lyft is set to expire in 2029 but includes provisions that allow for amendments. The city and Lyft have previously modified the agreement.
Transportation Alternatives, a non-profit organization, is advocating for the city to subsidize Citi Bike rides, aiming for a maximum cost of $3 for a 45-minute e-bike trip. Donor records indicate that Lyft is a significant donor to Transportation Alternatives, listed within the group's $100,000+ tier for fiscal year 2024.