It's likely that at least part of the current broader interest is based on the emergence of a simple but effective rack that carries two bikes on the front of the bus. Cities like Phoenix AZ and Las Vegas NV report attracting thousands of users per month. Typically, these involve distributing a fleet of color-coded bicycles around the community. Potential users simply find a bicycle and ride it to their destinations. When they're done, someone else can use the bicycle.
Volunteers repair any damage.
Users may be given helmets and some brief training as part of the service. To someone at the bottom of the economic scale, having a bike may mean being able to reliably reach a workplace and, as a result, to get and keep a job. Such programs may consist of brief educational clinics that cover important commuting topics. They may also include assistance for new commuters in choosing low-stress routes and proper equipment. And, in some cases, employers provide significant incentives for bicycling commuting.