In cities across the world, people are finding that there's an easier -- and more fun -- way to get around, whether headed to the office or out to explore. Bike share programs can be found everywhere from New York and San Francisco to Paris and Mexico City, and Chattanooga, home to the largest public bike transit system in a medium-size city, is among the ranks. The city's newest station opened just days ago, and the SpringHill Suites Chattanooga Downtown/Cameron Harbor couldn't be more excited -- the station is right in front of this Chattanooga family hotel.
The new station at this Chattanooga riverfront hotel houses 15 bikes, available to both guests and the public, and is the first to be installed on a hotel property. The solar-powered, state-of-the-art station aligns perfectly with the hotel's eco-friendly focus, which is illustrated by its Silver LEED certification. Local bike shops are obvious supporters, and offer discounts on gear and helmets for hotel guests who might have forgotten theirs back home.
Guests can use the bikes to explore the downtown area, and the Tennessee Riverwalk, which starts at the hotel's driveway. Most attractions are a two- to 10-minute bike ride away.
"This eco-friendly, recreational mode of transport will have our guests feeling even more connected to downtown Chattanooga and the Tennessee Riverwalk," Dwayne Massengale, general manager of the hotel, said.
To celebrate the new station, the downtown Chattanooga hotel will host the Bike Chattanooga Ribbon Cutting & Social Hour on Thursday, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Open to hotel guests and the public, the event will feature a ribbon cutting at 6 p.m., followed by celebratory drink specials in the Waterside Lounge.
"We are excited to offer our guests this unique amenity that promotes a healthy lifestyle and is environmentally friendly," said Jason Rothenberg, project director for 3H Group Hotels.