Spokane Pedicab showing off pedal power

New York City has them. Boise, Idaho, has them. Even Walla Walla, Wash., has them. And now Spokane has them too – human-powered hacks. On June 25, Spokane Pedicab took to the streets offering an eco-friendly, people-powered alternative for downtown locomotion. The business is the brainchild of two 20-year-old Gonzaga University students. Kevin Darrow and Sam Youtsey, who believe their service will offer visitors a unique way to explore the city, and will offer a convenient, green way to get around. Darrow and Youtsey met in math class their freshman year. Lately, they’ve been crafting a comprehensive business plan and courting sponsors. “I’ve always been interested in starting my own business,” says Darrow. “My Dad and I talked about this idea a few years ago, but I didn’t have the time or the resources to pursue it.” Youtsey adds with a grin, “Or the awesome co-founder.” In addition to the creativity and brains, the two take turns providing the pedal power for the charming green and tan rickshaw. Darrow assures, “We’ve been biking around, getting in shape.” The initial business will focus on the downtown Spokane corridor, including Riverfront Park. Darrow says a survey they conducted in this target area revealed that one third of the people they talked to were from out of town. For taxi service there’s a $1.00 minimum base rate and a fee of 50 cents per each tenth of a mile. “It averages out to be about 50 cents per city block,” Darrow says. The cab holds up to three people comfortably. They’re starting with a single cab, but are already looking at purchasing a second. “Next season we hope to get a fleet,” Youtsey said. Other available transportation options include a 30-minute tour of Gonzaga for $20. And for those eager to explore the downtown Spokane portion of the Centennial Trail, the company will offer a 15-minute ride for $10 or a 25-minute ride for $15. Fares can be paid by cash or credit card, and tips are encouraged. Darrow says, “People are looking for good buys right now. We want to be economical.” The owners are in the process of putting together budget-friendly “Date Night” packages, which could maybe include dinner at a downtown restaurant, tickets to a concert, or a Centennial Trail ride. Spokane Pedicab will make all the reservations and provide rides from one venue to the next. For those who enjoy Spokane’s bustling night life, the company will offer a “club hopping” service, providing quick, safe transportation among popular downtown night spots. Darrow and Youtsey stress that their company is not only green and pollution-free; they also want to promote local businesses. Several investors have already expressed interest in the new venture, and the company is currently being sponsored by Cassel Promotions and Signs, Wheel Sport on north Division and Madeleine’s Café and Patisserie. Sponsors’ logos will be featured on the company’s uniforms and in their brochures. It’s the young entrepreneurs’ passion to see local businesses succeed that impressed Madeleine’s co-owner Megan Poffenroth. “They came in one day and told us what they were doing,” she recalls. “Small businesses downtown are such a close-knit group. We all support each other.” She believes Spokane Pedicab will offer a great boost to the vibrant business sector and notes that many cities have thriving pedicab companies. “The downtown area is growing like crazy,” she says. “This is something that will help further growth.” And expansion is just what these two energetic young men have in mind. “We’ve got big plans and big ideas,” says Darrow with a grin. “But we’re taking it one step at a time.” He paused and exchanged glances with Youtsey. “I think it’s going to be a hit.”