Pedicabs making their way to Portsmouth

New service sees slow growth ahead

By CHARLES McMAHON
Article Date: Monday, June 9, 2008

PORTSMOUTH — Downtown revelers looking for a slow spin through the heart of the Port City have a solution in John Wright, owner of Granite State Pedicabs, who has introduced his new pedal-driven tricycle service to the city.

Having already received approval from the City Council, Police and Public Works departments, the 24-year-old plans on pedaling his dual passenger bicycle cab around Market Square throughout the summer months and beyond.

After moving to the city from Boston several months ago, Wright said he noticed the need for the service in Portsmouth after seeing how popular it became in the larger metropolis.

There is no set fee for the service, said Wright, and revenue will be based solely on the generosity of passengers.

"There is no standard minimum charge," said Wright, "whatever you feel is OK to pay."

The part-time business venture will primarily operate around Wright's work schedule as a media salesman and he encourages anyone looking to advertise on his pedicab or on employee T-shirts to give him a call.

"It will be visible all over Portsmouth," he said.

Calling his idea an "environmentally conscious and fun public service," Wright said he will pedal throughout the downtown, taking people on slow tours of Strawbery Banke and along the waterfront.

"I'll take them wherever they want to go right around downtown," said Wright.

So far he is the only employee, but hopes to generate enough business to have to add pedicabs and employees.

Hours of operation will be evenings from 6 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., and through the weekend from noon to 1:30 a.m. with a few breaks in between.

"I think the public in general is really thrilled about it," said Wright.

For more information on the business, contact John at granitestatepedicabs.com or call 603-630-3233.