Pedicabs arrive in community

SANDPOINT — Local taxicab drivers encountered a bit of unexpected competition this summer with the arrival of two new businesses offering pedal-powered transportation for hire.

Pedicabs, known more commonly as rickshaws, have a deep tradition in Asia and are fast becoming a popular alternative to motorized transportation in America.

The idea behind the cabs is simple: A bicycle equipped with a comfortable carriage — and a strong-legged driver — shuttles passengers from point A to B. There is nothing new or particularly inventive about the Pedicab, but rising gas costs and an emphasis on environmentalism have brought them back to the forefront of travel.

In an area known for minor to not-so-minor traffic problems, the pedicab would seem a perfect fit, but it wasn’t until this summer that the theory was put to the test.

In an unusual confluence of events, two separate Pedicab companies opened in Sandpoint within a span of two weeks, neither aware of the other.

The companies, Pend Oreille Pedal Cabs and Tricycle Taxi, specialize in short-distance travel and have become fixtures in downtown Sandpoint and at special events. The owners of both companies said customer reaction has been outstanding, but neither is prepared to say the business will make them rich.

Aric Spence started Tricycle Taxi — known for its bright yellow exterior and checker-clad driver — because he thought it would be fun and helpful.

“We really wanted to provide an opportunity to make the downtown more vibrant and fun,” he said. “For our model, there’s really not a lot of money in it. It’s really more of a community service.”

The owners of Pend Oreille Pedal Cab, Robert Baker and Ted McNamara, had similar goals. The two professional ski coaches wanted to find a way to be active, have fun and offer a environmentally-friendly service when they’re not on the slopes.

While it might never make him rich, Baker said the popularity of this service grew exponentially as the summer wore on.

“I think people are definitely accepting us and I think it’s going to grow,” he said. “I think next year, when we get back into warm weather and there’s something going on, it will be even better.”

At its July meeting, the City Council passed a number of amendments to its taxicab ordinance to include Pedicabs. Under the new law, Pedicab owners must now have a taxicab license, riders must undergo a physical examination and have insurance, among other regulations.

Tricycle Taxi has suspended its passenger services for the remainder of the season, but Spence plans on offering up his two cabs for various community service groups. Pend Oreille Pedal Cabs will continue to operate throughout the year and can be reached at 597-0887 for reservations.