City officials, members of the Chamber of Commerce and local residents gathered in Bellingham Square last week to welcome the Zipcar expansion there.
Zipcar is the world’s leading car sharing network, and just last week released news that the company has grown in users by 18 percent this year.
That increase no doubt has some foothold in Chelsea.
“It’s another great transportation option for people looking to get around,” City Manager Jay Ash said of Zipcar. “I’m excited that Zipcar has accepted our invitation to locate a car in Bellingham Square and hope that it is so utilized that they will accept our invitation to come to other locations around Chelsea.”
The Bellingham Square location is actually in the municipal parking lot on Fifth Street, under Route 1. The new location represents an expansion of the Zipcar availability in Chelsea: two Zipcars are also available at 121 Captain’s Row on Admirals Hill.
“The partnership between Zipcar and Chelsea is a strong one. We’re happy to be welcomed to such a progressive community and thrilled that so many residents and people working in Chelsea are signing up for our network of great, convenient cars,” said Lisa Feldman, General Manager, Zipcar Boston.
Zipcars members are local residents and visitors, as well as employees of local businesses. In fact, the “Zipcar for Business” program offers discounted driving Monday through Friday. Zipcar for Business helps businesses save money, meet environmental sustainability goals and reduce parking requirements by providing their employees with access to Zipcars for business needs and other uses.
“It’s so convenient and is really an environmentally friendly transportation option,” said Joe Mahoney, a local businessman and resident who has been a longtime Zipcar enthusiast. “I use Zipcar all the time and have had nothing but great experiences.”
“This is a great option for our business community, and for everyone else here in Chelsea,” added Don Harney, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce. “Their business model is solid because it puts customer satisfaction and convenience first. I think new subscribers will feel that right away.”
Zipcar provides hourly and daily rates, and provides gas, reserved parking spots, insurance, roadside assistance and up to 180 miles per day of travel for its subscribers. For more information, including how to become a Zipcar member, check out www.zipcar.com.