WHEREAS, Residents of public housing in Philadelphia are getting discounted access to Zipcar vehicles as part of a new program funded by a federal grant. This program will ease the barriers to economic and health opportunities such as doctors' appointments, job interviews, and run essential errands. Access to transportation is essential for community members to thrive; and
WHEREAS, Studies show that Zipcar reduces personal vehicle ownership in cities nationwide, including Philadelphia. The round-trip car-sharing model reduces congestion and carbon emissions while also fueling the use of sustainable transportation modes like public transit, bike sharing, walking and car sharing, for destinations that require driving. According to Zipcar’s annual North American Transportation Survey, more than 70% of Philadelphia members state that Zipcar plays an important role in their lives by cutting costs of car ownership, saving money, and accessing opportunity; and
WHEREAS, Since 2007, Zipcar has been providing Philadelphians with access to a vehicle without the cost or hassles of car ownership. Today, more than 300 Zipcar vehicles can be easily found at 140 locations across several neighborhoods including South Philly, Spring Garden, West Philly, University City, Fishtown, Old City, Washington Square and Rittenhouse. This partnership is not only expanding its presence, but it is giving back to community members in need; and
WHEREAS, Without access to transportation, residents have felt the economic and social disparities more intensely than others. Being able to attend job interviews, doctors' appointments, and other services is essential to the security and well-being of community members; and
WHEREAS, In some neighborhoods of the city, such as Strawberry Mansion and Mill Creek, access to public transportation is often scarce. Other than a handful of bus stops, these neighborhoods are left with little to no mobility, leaving residents stationary. With the assistance of this partnership, residents will be able to gain mobility and access to opportunities, without relying on public transportation; and
WHEREAS, The eight dedicated PHA Zipcars are split among four permanent on-street parking spots, two each at the John F. Street Community Center in West Poplar, the Lucien Blackwell Community Center in Mill Creek, the Vaux Community Building in Sharswood, and Wilson Park Apartments in Point Breeze. Public housing residents who wish to book those cars will pay a discounted annual membership fee and discounted hourly rate; and
WHEREAS, The president of Zipcar, Angelo Adams, is a Philadelphia native. When asked about the partnership, he stated, “Public partners are tackling a growing trifecta - climate, equity and mobility issues - and because of this, Zipcar is seeing increased demand for car sharing in cities, especially underserved communities. Growing up in the Logan neighborhood of North Philadelphia, I’m eager to see Zipcar help drive this community forward.” This partnership will bring together neighborhoods who have been underserved and left behind; and
WHEREAS, The City Council of Philadelphia is proud to honor the Philadelphia Housing Authority for its vital role in facilitating this transformative partnership with Zipcar. The effects of this partnership will soon be felt by communities across the city. We applaud the two entities and extend our gratitude; now, therefore, be it.
RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes the Philadelphia Housing Authority for their partnership with Zipcar to provide discounted car shares to increase economic mobility for residents of public housing within the city.
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