Seattle Commuter Works

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There are still opportunities for you to rent bicycles from Seattle Commuter Works at Seward Park on two remaining Bicycle Sundays. Seattle Commuter Works is the brainchild of Justus Jessen (pronounced U-stus), an inspiring young man with a creative entrepreneurial spirit. This just-out-of-high school eighteen year old has not only established his own business, his vision is to give it away. Let me clarify. He doesn't want to give his business away, he wants to award grants.

The inspiration for his enterprise began while at Nova High School, a student-run alternative high school of Seattle Public Schools. Enrolled in a climate science class, "Earth Justice," Justus was required to complete a project for credit. A product of Bike Works, Justus first attempted a "Yellow Bike" program for Nova. When that plan didn't get off the ground, he began an effort to establish such a program in Seattle's Central District. That too didn't pan out. Then through involvement in Youth Ventures, an international effort of Ashoka with social change and community betterment a keystone of the organization's entrepreneurial training, Justus developed a business plan. That business plan he submitted to Youth Ventures resulted in a $1000.00 seed money grant.

Armed with seed money from Youth Ventures and additional funds he borrowed against his college fund, Justus purchased his 10 Dahon "Boardwalk" folding bikes that are the backbone of his rental business. He applied for a business license, insured his company, and obtained a permit from Seattle Parks and Recreation to locate at Seward Park. Currently, he transports his bikes in his mother's Mercedes station wagon. It's a testament to the portability of these folding bicycles. With the back seats down, he can fit two rows of 5 bikes at one time. This summer his most memorable customers were an older man and woman who had not ridden for sometime. The man was 85 years old, probably his oldest and most inspiring. His youngest, he guesses was about eight. Children must have a parent sign for them when renting. All customers sign a rental agreement and waiver. A helmet and lock are furnished as a part of the rental package.

The bicycle rental business is impressive, but for Justus, it is just the beginning of a bigger vision. Motivated to promote bicycle commuting to work or school as well as riding for fun, Justus aspires to encourage small businesses to embrace commuting by bicycle. His plan, though he wisely foresees 5-6 years to develop, is to donate these businesses bicycles, helmets and locks. In addition, he plans to develop a grant program, but this he knows will take some time and lots of work. Though the permitting process for a 501c3 status (non-profit is required for grant purposes) is daunting. he has already studied the process thoroughly and through his Youth Ventures' network has legal assistance. Meanwhile, he is developing a website working on enhancing group rates, considering possible delivery of his bicycles (for parties), and issuing coupons for rental discounts.

Look for these eye-catching Dahon bikes and the canopy with the Seattle Commuter Works banner in the meadow near the pottery studio. They are located directly across from the public beach from 10 am to 6 pm Bicycle Sundays. Rental rates are quite reasonable.

Seattle Commuter Works Bicycle Rentals