Car-sharing Program Could Come to Grand Rapids

Major U.S. cities have introduced car-sharing programs to expand transportation options for residents.

Rent-by-the hour cars could soon be coming to downtown Grand Rapids, WZZM-13 reports.

The City of Grand Rapids is working with Enterprise on the project.

Already, the car-share program is in effect at Grand Valley University's Campus. Enterprise cars are kept in a campus lot for students and faculty to rent by the hour.

Pam Ritsema, managing director of enterprise services for the City of Grand Rapids, explains,  " 'Carshare' is an hourly rental of a car. You set up an account with Enterprise, and you only have to be 18 years old with a decent driving record."

Once you're registered, you get a card that you swipe at the car that unlocks the doors. Depending on the size of the car, cost is $8 to $14 per hour.

The plan is to have 10 cars available throughout downtown Grand Rapids, at places like like the Medical Mile, GVSU's downtown campus, Calder plaza, and more.