Overview
New York artist Justin Blinder has engineered a device intended to reduce the operational speed of Citi Bikes. This intervention is specifically activated when the shared bicycles pass through designated sections of New York City that are characterized by "greater housing pressure." The project, titled 'Ground Truth', merges Blinder's professional background in data and design with his practical experience as a bike messenger.
Approach
The 'Ground Truth' project involved the creation of a physical device. This device was developed using 3D-printing technology. Its stated function is to slow Citi Bikes. The activation of this slowing mechanism is location-specific, targeting areas within New York City described as "rent-burdened" or under "greater housing pressure."
Research Context
Justin Blinder, the creator of the device, has a multi-disciplinary background. His professional experience encompasses data and design. Additionally, he possesses firsthand experience as a bike messenger. These varied experiences were reportedly combined in the conceptualization and development of the 'Ground Truth' project.
Why This Matters
The project represents an artistic and technical intervention that physically alters the function of a public utility system (Citi Bikes) based on socio-economic data (housing pressure). It illustrates a method for embedding data-driven considerations into physical urban mobility infrastructure.