PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh has buses, jitneys, taxis and now a new conveniently green way to get around town.
Green Gears pedicabs will take riders anywhere they want to go, whether it be a night out on the town or a Pirates game at PNC Park.
"This is the greatest job I've ever had," said driver Eddie DeCarlo. "Meeting new people every day -- what more can I ask for?"
DeCarlo's enthusiasm for the emissions-free form of transportation is equally shared by his customers.
"I think they are neat and exciting -- I want to try one out," said Margaret Freedlane.
Green Gears co-founder Paul Kletter said his independent contractors cover the South Side, downtown, Strip District and lower Lawrenceville and can be called on for events anywhere else.
"I've done a lot of traveling over the years and it is something that I think is a great opportunity for Pittsburgh to have, so I figured why not apply it to something I know?" said Kletter
Rates cost about $1 per block or a flat negotiated fee.
The cabs have hydraulic brakes and can hold as many as three passengers, or up to 600 pounds -- proving to be quite a workout for those doing the pedaling.
"That's what everyone says when they get in the cab. They say, 'You must have legs of steel!'" said DeCarlo.
The cabs also have protection from rain and snow.
"A lot of times people don't want to get wet -- they don't want to get snowed on -- so this is a way to get to the next place dry!" said DeCarlo.
Everywhere DeCarlo and his fellow drivers pedal, people are starting to notice.
"I thought it was a little weird at first, but then it's a great idea. Save a lot of gas," said Ron Goings.
There were even a few job requests.
"I think they're cool. Hire me -- I can ride a bike," said Jermaine Childs.
The cabs also offer advertising on the back and plan on transporting cargo for local companies.
Related Links: Green Gears Pedicabs
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