Zipcars arrive in downtown Ann Arbor, awaiting further instructions

Downtown Ann Arbor has three new additions; they just don't exactly have a home yet.

The three potential Zipcars that were slated for downtown Ann Arbor are no longer potential – they are a go. The only issue now is where are they go-ing?

"We're fleshing out the details," says Nancy Shore, getDowntown's Program Director. "But we are looking at the Main Street area, Kerry Town, State Street, and South-U."

Funding is in place and the interest is there, Ann Arbor's Downtown Development Authority just has to nail down the locations, Shore says.

The Zipcars are being brought in to ease downtown Ann Arbor's congestive parking and traffic situation. The University of Michigan already has 10 up and running for faculty, students, staff, and nearby residents to use. And, according to Shore, they are quite popular.

The cars, parked at designated locations throughout the city, can be rented for $8 an hour or $60 a day – after a $35 yearly membership fee. Fees include gas and insurance. This allows workers the opportunity to get downtown by bike or bus, yet still have the access to a car if need be.

"As gas prices increase, people want other options," Shore says. "People want answers to commuting challenges: Car pool, ride bikes – and now Zipcars."

Shore says that developers have shown an interest in them as well.

"Developers like the idea of having a Zipcars for their new buildings," she says. "Something for employees or residents."

With all the interest in these hourly rent-a-cars, you'll probably start seeing a lot more of them.

Source: Nancy Shore, getDowntown's Program Director
Writer: Terry Parris, Jr.