Introducing the New Pillar Docking System at Bluebikes Stations
Since its launch in 2011, Bluebikes has become an integral part of Boston’s urban fabric. This September, and continuing through 2025, Mayor Wu and the City of Boston’s Streets Cabinet are strengthening bike share in Boston by adding 100 new stations. As the new docks roll out, you’ll notice some big changes. Most stations will feature the completely redesigned Pillar docking system, which will enhance the reliability and convenience of your Bluebikes experience.
Here’s What’s New with the Pillar Docking System:
• Redesigned Locking Mechanism: Secure and retrieve your bike more easily thanks to our newly designed, user-friendly locking system. Could docking become almost as much fun as the ride itself?! Let us know what you think.
• Innovative Technology: Pillar features both solar panels and the ability to connect to the electric grid. As we explore the future of ebikes in bike share, Pillar offers the possibility to charge ebikes while they’re parked at a dock. This will increase efficiency, and keep more ebikes rolling.
• Kiosk-Free Operation: In areas with multiple stations, we will deploy docks without kiosks. Riders can undock bikes using the app or a key.
Tap your Bluebikes key fob on the right side of the dock to unlock a bike instead of inserting the key on the left.
You may notice that “wrenching” (letting us know a bike needs repair), has moved from the dock to the app, allowing you to provide detailed feedback on any issues with your bike. No phone? No problem! Wrench a bike by unlocking and re-docking your bike after you end your trip and we’ll dispatch a mechanic to inspect it.
A little more about Pillars design and functionality in the system:
- Design Philosophy: The design aims to be timeless and iconic, akin to a fire hydrant or parking meter.
- Independent Power and Connectivity: Each Pillar is independently powered and connected, with future capabilities to charge new micro-mobility machines.
- Sustainability and Longevity: Designed for sustainability and long life, Pillars can be arranged like traditional docking stations or individually on corners as daylighting, offering more pickup and drop-off locations.
- Low Maintenance: Each Pillar is designed to operate for months without service, featuring an efficient analog display that uses zero power 99% of the time.
- Connection to Electric Grid: The Pillars can be connect to the electric grid, with a redesigned locking mechanism for battery swapping.
- Impact on Vehicle Charging: When connected to the grid the system will reduce the number of vehicles needing manual charging, ensuring more ebikes are charged and ready for use.
As we deploy the Pillar system at Bluebikes stations, we invite you to explore the enhancements and share your experiences. Your insights help us continuously improve and tailor our services to better meet your urban mobility needs.