There are 611 BIXI stations throughout the island of Montreal, the Town of Mont-Royal, as well as Laval and Longueuil. Several factors come into play when choosing the location of a new BIXI station. BIXI station locations are based on three main criteria:
- population density (more residents per km2 means more stations)
- travel generators (i.e. places that are likely to generate activity, regular commute routes: shops, metro stations, bus routes, etc.)
- nearby bike paths
Another key component, that goes hand in hand with these three criteria, is having enough space to ensure the safety of both users and pedestrians.
Various stakeholders are involved in the process, including the different boroughs, the cities where BIXI stations are in operation, as well as public transportation companies.
BIXI holds an occupancy permit for each of its stations. The permits are issued annually by each borough, or in some cases, the Société de transport de Montréal (when the BIXI stations are located near metro stations).
You now have a better understanding of how we choose only the best BIXI station locations. Of course, most users would love to have a station right outside their own front door! This is how we make our decisions. Still have a suggestion or know of a location that would be super convenient for bixists? Let us know by filling out the form on our website!
Why was my station moved???
More often than not, BIXI stations are moved due to roadwork or construction projects. We work closely with various stakeholders to plan any changes to the BIXI network well in advance. However, if the dates happen to change, the BIXI planning team is informed 48 hours before the revised start date. We always have to be on our toes! Sometimes, stations are temporarily removed from the network to accommodate minor construction projects or roadwork. However, if the disruption lasts longer than expected, we will move the station to another safe location nearby by collaborating with various authorities. All networks changes are updated daily on the Network info section of our website. On the app, stations that have been removed or relocated are displayed in grey and their new locations are displayed in red (as usual).
We avoid making changes to the network as much as possible. However, in reality, more than a third of the BIXI network will experience roadwork or construction disruptions each and every year. It’s a real juggling act!
Station design and concept
BIXI stations and bikes were specially designed by internationally renowned Montreal designer, Michel Dallaire, who wanted to create a coherent whole that was capable of seamlessly blending into the urban environment. One of the major design challenges was to create a secure and easy-to-use docking system that would minimize the risk of vandalism and theft. All BIXI stations are portable and do not require any permanent infrastructure or extensive excavation, making them easy to set up and move. The majority of the system is made from recyclable aluminium and the terminals are powered by solar energy. BIXI’s passion and dedication to sustainable development has been integrated into the very design of its bikes and stations!
