Free adaptive bicycle rentals have arrived in our car-free spaces! The SFMTA and Rec and Parks Department have partnered with Bay Area Outreach and Recreation Program (BORP) – a local nonprofit that provides and promotes recreation activities for people with disabilities – to permanently provide rentable adaptive cycles for people to use in our parks.
BORP sets up in Golden Gate Park on the first and third Saturday of the month behind the Bandshell. On the second and fourth Saturday of the month, they set up on the Great Highway at Judah. Hours of operation for both locations are 1-4pm.
The program will operate on a reservation-only system to ensure that there is a correct number and type of adaptive cycles available. If you or someone you know is interested in renting one of their many adaptive bicycles or tricycles, be sure to call (510-848-2930) or email (cycling@borp.org) BORP to make your reservation in advance.
This program is the result of a pilot program that the City conducted in 2021 that was incredibly successful, and participants were very enthusiastic about seeing it continue.
Access to adaptive cycles supports the health and independence of everyone looking to get rolling in our parks. Leo Siecienski, the program manager, shared that this opportunity is not only beneficial to the people who use the adaptive cycles. It is also a great way to build community, learn compassion and empathy, and provide everyone the opportunity to get around and recreate carbon-free.
Want to get involved? BORP needs volunteers for their Saturday shifts to help people adjust their cycles and join them along their rides. This is a great opportunity to meet your community and encourage folks to see Golden Gate Park and the Great Highway on an adaptive bike. If you’re interested in volunteering, reach out to cycling@borp.org or subscribe to our biweekly volunteer newsletter to stay up to date on all future volunteer opportunities through this program and more!
