Ford GoBike Announces Innovative Miles-for-Miles Partnership with Alaska Airlines, Celebrates Expansion in San Jose

Adapted from a release by Ford GoBike

Ford GoBike and Alaska Airlines, joined by San Jose Mayor and MTC Commissioner Sam Liccardo, regional officials and community members, today announced the launch of their founding partnership with an innovative new miles-for-miles program. Ford GoBike riders can now earn 10 Alaska Mileage Plan miles for each Ford GoBike ride anywhere in the Bay Area. Today’s event, held at San Pedro Square Market, also celebrated the expansion of Ford GoBike into San Jose. Since launching in July, the Ford GoBike system has grown to include over 300 bikes at 34 stations in San Jose.

“From swiping their Clipper® card to earning Alaska Airline miles, our unique partnerships are giving Ford GoBike riders new ways to explore the possibilities of urban mobility,” said Jay Walder, president and CEO of Motivate, which operates Ford GoBike. “Ford GoBikes have already become a key part of the transportation network in the Bay Area. We’re proud to provide San Jose residents with reliable, safe and equitable service and a fun new way to get around town.”

“We’re thrilled to offer the first-ever member rewards program for Ford GoBike that will help 2 travelers take advantage of the beautiful Bay Area,” said Diana Birkett Rakow, Alaska Airlines’ vice president of external relations. “Not only are Bay Area guests getting to know Alaska Airlines and our award-winning service, but residents will also continue to see our strong commitment to the community like our contribution to Salvation Army’s North Bay relief efforts. As part of creating an airline that people love, we’re dedicated to providing affordable, sustainable and convenient travel options.”

“I applaud this partnership, and am excited to see the Ford GoBike program flourish in San Jose. Equitable, affordable, and accessible bicycle transportation can reduce traffic, improve air quality, and ease commuter access to public transit hubs,” said San Jose Mayor and MTC Commissioner Sam Liccardo. “I look forward to Ford GoBike’s continued expansion as we work to make San Jose a leader in bicycle-friendly American cities.”

“Downtown San Jose is growing rapidly, and Ford GoBike is leading the way to get folks out of their cars and commuting in style," said Councilmember Raul Peralez, who represents downtown San Jose. "Thanks to Motivate and Alaska Airlines for their continued investment in our city."

As part of the founding partnership, Alaska Airlines is the marketing sponsor of 100 percent of Ford GoBike stations in San Jose and 250 stations throughout the Bay Area.

Bike enthusiasts can sign up for Alaska Mileage Plan free and learn more here.

San Jose is part of the regional network of Ford GoBike, which now consists of 240 stations throughout San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley and Emeryville, as well as San Jose. Expansion in San Jose is well underway and continuing: in addition to the 34 existing stations and nine planned stations being installed soon, 21 additional stations have been proposed and are going through the community review process. By the end of 2018, there will be more than 80 stations in San Jose. San Jose residents ages 18 and older who qualify for Calfresh, SFMTA (Low Income) Lifeline Passes or PG&E CARE utility discount are also eligible for a $5 annual Ford GoBike membership through the Bike Share for All program, developed in partnership with the MTC.

Alaska Airlines joins other major brands including Ford in the Bay Area, and others including Nike, Citi, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Hulu, that have made major investments in bike share programs from New York City to Portland to support smart mobility and sustainability.