[Updated: August 2nd, 8:30am]
People’s Food Co-op!
(File photo)
Starting today, shoppers at People’s Food Co-op (3029 SE 21st Ave.) who arrive by bike, foot, or transit don’t have to worry about how they’ll get all their groceries home.
That’s because the Portland Pedal Power Bicycle Delivery Service will make free home deliveries (tips are welcome of course).
The idea was first hatched by Neil Robinson who wanted to assist customers that weren’t able to leave their homes. Once he heard that co-op members Kwah Waadabi and Ken Wetherell also wanted to do a bike delivery service, they decided to pool their resources and launch Portland Pedal Power.
Their current arsenal of delivery vehicles includes two bicycles with cargo trailers and one bakfiets (leased from Clever Cycles).
(File photo)
Neil says they’ve got plans to work with other stores, bakeries, coffee roasters, and so on. Currently the service is only available on Wednesdays from 2-7pm (during their Farmers Market), but hours are expected to expand.
For more information, People’s marketing gal Sarah Cline offers up the following Q & A’s:
How much does it cost?
It is free within the following boundaries: SE Holgate to SE Hawthorne and SE 39th to the Willamette River. Outside of these zones a charge of $5 per half mile will apply.
How can I contact Portland Pedal Power?
Please call their voice mail service at 503-296-2120 or find them at People’s Farmers Market every Wednesday from 2 – 7pm starting Wednesday August 1st.
Why are they doing this?
A deep sense of commitment to our community and the Earth we share! Tips are welcome too.
How long will this service be offered?
This is a pilot project that will last through November 1st. Should it be successful (and we think it will!) Portland Pedal Power hopes to provide contract delivery services to other like-minded businesses and help other Portland Pedal Power chapters start up around the City of Roses.
Stay tuned to the just-launched Portland Pedal Power blog for updates and further info.
Good luck guys!
The BTA reports that the News Seasons Market in Arbor Lodge has also started a bicycle-powered Meals on Wheels program!