Bike Hub Slowly Gains Traction

The new downtown Santa Monica Bike Center is slowing gaining traction with tourists and residents alike.

According to General Manager Ron Durgin, the cycling hub is selling an average of between 30 and 35 bike rentals daily.

It boasts more than 350 bike racks, a repair station, educational cycling classes and a bike valet service at the corner of Colorado and 2nd Street. It opened Nov. 18 at the cost of $2 million, funded by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority

Durgin said the rentals—which average about $35—bring in enough revenue to pay the bills, including a lease and payroll for 11 employees. The facility also provides showers, lockers and restrooms to locals willing to buy a membership for day-to-day storage of their bikes.

Durgin said the center sold its first membership Thursday.