WASHINGTON — Capital Bikeshare which oversees 2,500 bikes and 300 bike stations in the D.C. area may soon have to look for a new supplier for equipment.
The system depends on Public Bike System Company, also known as Bixi, for new bikes and docks but the Montreal based company, after filing for bankruptcy is being bought by a Canadian businessman.
A bankruptcy judge this week approved the purchase of the company, for $4 million, by businessman Bruno Rodi. After he takes control, the Montreal Gazette reports that Rodi plans to cancel all existing contracts.
This would leave many North American cities, including D.C.’s Capital Bikeshare program looking for a new vendor.
Capital Bikeshare officials tell WTOP that there is not enough information to tell how Bixi’s purchase will affect the program. They are watching the developments closely and keeping in close contact with other cities that use the same bikes and docks.
One of the many unanswered questions: Is there another vendor that can supply the system with new bikes and bike stations?
No vendor could mean big problems for the system which plans to expand into College Park, Md., Fairfax County, Va. and Montgomery County, Md.
Related stories:
Residents weigh in on potential Fairfax County bikeshare (WTOP)
Court approves transfer of Bixi Montreal to city (Montreal Gazette)
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