PEDICAB BICYCLE CARRIAGE PROPOSAL

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that City Council:

1. Allow the use of a pedicab bicycle carriage service for a one-year trial period.
2. Restrict pedicab service to the downtown commercial zone and the Strand walkway. Operating hours 6 p.m. to 12 midnight every day.
3. Monitor the pedicab service through the Traffic Enforcement Bureau of the Police Department.

BACKGROUND

In keeping with the revitalization of our town and the creation of new market services, two local entrepreneurs have petitioned the city to consider the use of pedicabs as sightseeing and local destination tours.

A pedicab is a pedal powered tricycle taxi with fiberglass cab carriage able to carry two adults in the cab. All pedicabs are street legal and equipped with safety lights and brakes. Pedicabs would come under the California Department of Motor Vehicle Code as all the rules and regulations pertaining to bicycles. Only employees of the company will operate the vehicle.

ANALYSIS

Pedicabs as an alternative means of transportation are utilized in several major cities in the country and in California at San Francisco, San Diego, Huntington Beach, San Jose, with the City of Long Beach considering their use. The size of Hermosa Beach severely limits the market viability unless the venture is coupled with another city. One of the potential pedicab company's attempted a market trial during the grand opening of the Hermosa Plaza. Customer response was very flat. Although the pedicab rides were free, most people preferred to walk.

Pedicabs, if successful, could provide a test view of the benefits of linking our downtown with the neighboring cities, thereby broadening the market and entertainment appeal for the South Bay.

A proposal brochure from the Hermosa Beach Carriage Company titled, Pedicabs - "Romantic Rides for Two" is attached for your review.

Agendas / Minutes Menu | Back to Agenda