YouBike rolls into Hsinchu – stations expected to begin operation in the first half of 2016

▲The prevalence of YouBike continues to rise, and Hsinchu City will also open YouBike stations. (Photo / Reporter Wang Zining, file photo)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

YouBike is coming to Hsinchu City too. The Hsinchu City Government and Smile Scooter Co., Ltd. have signed an agreement to jointly establish theHsinchu City Public Bicycle Rental System – YouBike. It is expected that 10 stations will be completed and operational in the first half of 2016, with 30 rental stations and 750 public bicycles to be in service by the end of next year.

▲Hsinchu City Mayor Lin Chih-chien (third from right) leads citizens in trying out YouBike. (Photo / Provided by Hsinchu City Transportation Department)

Hsinchu City Transportation Department Director Shen Hui-hong stated that the initial 10 YouBike stations will be prioritized at major transportation hubs, schools, residential areas, historic sites, and tourist attractions. Examples include the 186-year-old East Gate (Yinghsi East Gate), the 102-year-old Hsinchu Railway Station, the century-old Chenghuang Temple, and the century-old historical building of Hsinchu Prefectural Hall (currently the Hsinchu City Government). Site evaluations will be carried out as soon as possible, and it is expected that the installations will be progressively completed in the first half of 2016. Through the YouBike network, the goal is to promote environmentally friendly, light-travel tourism to the city’s historic landmarks.

The Transportation Department noted that following Taipei City, New Taipei City, Taichung City, and Changhua County, Hsinchu City is now promoting the YouBike public bicycle rental service. Riding a YouBike has become part of daily life for many residents. In the first three months after the official launch, the city government will offer a free 30-minute ride promotion to encourage usage. Additionally, warning signs will be installed at major intersections, and traffic safety education for elementary and junior high school students will continue to foster a safe and friendly transportation environment.