NSI Plans and Implements Cycle219’s Expansion

Nexus Strategy & Implementation is proud to announce a new partnership with the Gary Public Transportation Corporation (GPTC) to support the launch of an equitable regional bike share program serving multiple cities across Northwest Indiana. This innovative initiative will introduce a fleet of e-bikes and coaster bikes, expanding access to safe, affordable, and sustainable transportation options for residents, workers, and visitors throughout the region.

(ID: Cycle219 Bike Share Station at Calumet College in Whiting, Indiana.)

Advancing Equitable Mobility Across Northwest Indiana

Transportation access is a cornerstone of economic opportunity, health, and community connectivity. Through this partnership, Nexus Strategy & Implementation and GPTC are working together to ensure that this bike share is not just available, but accessible, inclusive, and sustainable, particularly for communities that have historically faced barriers to mobility.

(ID: Jessica Renslow speaking at the Indiana State Capital on Transit Day.)

By integrating both electric-assist bikes and traditional coaster bikes, the program is designed to meet a wide range of user needs, abilities, and trip purposes. Additionally replacing traditional docking stations with accessible bike racks coupled with the inclusion of e-bikes helps will reduce physical barriers related to structures, distance, terrain, and stamina, while coaster bikes provide a familiar, easy-to-use option for riders of all experience levels.

(ID: Cycle219 Bike Share Hubs are strategically located near bus stops and train stations. In October Cycle219 partnered with Save the Dunes' NWI Thrive initiative to host a slow roll from the Miller Southshore Station in Gary, Indiana.)

A Regional, Multi-City Approach

Unlike traditional single-city bike share programs, this initiative is intentionally structured to serve multiple municipalities across Northwest Indiana, reinforcing regional connectivity and collaboration. The program supports first- and last-mile connections to public transit, employment centers, downtowns, and neighborhood destinations, strengthening the overall transportation ecosystem.

(ID: Map of the Whiting and Hammond Cycle219 Hubs.)

The bike share program will be operated by GPTC as part of its Cycle219 initiative, aligning public transit and active transportation to create a more connected and resilient region.

(ID: Map of Gary's Miller Neighborhood and Marquette Park Cycle219 Hubs.)

Nexus’ Role

Nexus Strategy & Implementation is providing comprehensive support to ensure the long-term success of the bike share program. In addition to strategic planning and equity-centered program design, our team is leading:

• Strategic marketing to build awareness, encourage ridership, and communicate program benefits

• Logistics planning to support efficient deployment, operations, and system expansion

• Maintenance planning to promote bike safety, reliability, and long-term asset management

• Coordination across partners and municipalities to ensure seamless implementation and regional alignment

(ID: Maintenance services will be performed by Grand Calumet Bikes on Lake Street in Gary, Indiana. )

Our work is focused on ensuring the program:

• Prioritizes equitable access and affordability

• Reflects community input and local needs

• Aligns with broader transportation, sustainability, and economic development goals

• Creates long-term value for residents and municipalities

(ID: Cyclists ride from Farmer's Marquette by Miller Train Station to West Beach.)

This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to helping communities move from vision to action, building systems that work for everyone.

Looking Ahead

We are excited to see this bike share program roll out and evolve as a model for equitable, regional active transportation in Northwest Indiana. Together with GPTC and our municipal partners, we look forward to sharing updates as the program expands and riders take to the streets.

To learn more about the program, visit Cycle219 through the Gary Public Transportation Corporation.

At Nexus Strategy & Implementation, we believe mobility is opportunity and we’re proud to be part of a project that puts that belief into motion.

(ID: Slow rollers try out Cycle219 coasters down Lake Street in Gary's Miller Community.)