Mayor Brandon Johnson, the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT), and Lyft have
announced a set of improvements to the Divvy bike and scooter share system that will take effect
on July 7. The upgrades include reduced annual membership pricing, capped ebike ride costs, the
addition of new bike stations, and the elimination of unlock fees in designated equity-focused
neighborhoods.
The changes are supported by more than $3 million in city funding and are designed to address
rider feedback while aligning with broader goals of sustainability and transportation equity.
“By investing in Divvy improvements, we’re not only supporting more sustainable mobility
options but also ensuring cost isn’t a barrier to accessing cleaner transportation throughout our
city,” Mayor Johnson said. “This investment allows us to deliver immediate benefits to riders
while building a more affordable, more connected Chicago.”
Under the new structure, the annual membership price for new and lapsed users will drop from
$143.90 to $99. Riders who are not members but start trips in Equity Priority Areas will no
longer pay unlock fees. For current members, rides lasting between 30 and 45 minutes will be
capped at the 30-minute rate. Additionally, 750 new bike docks will be installed downtown to
increase availability during peak commuting hours.
A new “low assist mode” will also be introduced for e-bikes, allowing users to reduce electric
assistance and emulate the feel of a traditional pedal bike when standard bikes are unavailable.
Members will now be able to pause ebike trips for up to 15 minutes.
CDOT Commissioner Tom Carney emphasized the continued investment in the system. “Divvy
has been an important part of Chicago’s transportation network for 12 years, and we’re
continuing to enhance the system to make it a more convenient and affordable option for more
Chicagoans,” he said.
Sean Madison, General Manager of Divvy at Lyft, noted the company’s efforts to improve
service and reduce barriers to ridership. “By reducing costs for members and improving service
in key areas of the city, we’re ensuring that bike share connects communities and supports
Chicago’s climate goals,” he said.
Several transportation advocates welcomed the changes. Amy Rynell of the Active
Transportation Alliance highlighted affordability for everyday riders. Michael Edwards of the
Chicago Loop Alliance called the expansion of dock availability a step forward in promoting
multimodal commuting. Alex Nelson of Better Streets Chicago described Divvy as a “key part of
a well-rounded transportation system,” saying the updates reflect a continued commitment to
citywide access.
While most changes will benefit riders, minor inflation-driven price adjustments will also go into
effect. Classic bike trips for members that exceed 45 minutes will rise by one cent per minute.
Scooter rides will cost an additional two cents per minute, and e-bike member rides will also
increase by one cent per minute. However, members who renew in 2025 will maintain the new
$99 annual rate with no increase.
All updates will be made available via the Divvy and Lyft apps, subject to availability.